Center City PCS - Capitol Hill

At a Glance

Center City Public Charter Schools - Capitol Hill Campus is a public charter school serving students from pre-kindergarten (age 3) through eighth grade at 1503 East Capitol Street SE in Washington, DC. Located in Ward 7 on Capitol Hill, the school provides a complete early childhood and elementary education pathway, allowing families to keep their children in one school community from preschool through middle school.

The school's mission centers on three pillars: building moral character, promoting academic excellence, and generating public service throughout Washington, D.C. This focus on character development alongside academics aims to prepare students not just for high school, but for lifelong success as engaged community members.

What Parents Should Know

Center City PCS - Capitol Hill is part of a network of six Center City Public Charter Schools campuses located throughout the District. As a public charter school, admission is handled through the My School DC lottery system, though some sources indicate that this particular campus may not require a lottery—families should verify current admission procedures directly with the school or through the My School DC website when applying.

The PK3–8 grade configuration means families can potentially keep their child at the same campus for up to ten years, from age three through eighth grade. This extended runway allows students to build deep relationships with teachers and peers while benefiting from a consistent educational approach. However, families should plan ahead for the high school transition, as students will need to apply to other schools for ninth grade.

The school requires students to wear uniforms, which can simplify morning routines and reduce clothing costs for families. Parents should inquire about uniform specifications and where to purchase them during the enrollment process.

Being part of a multi-campus network means the school may share certain resources, professional development approaches, and organizational policies with other Center City campuses. The network operates a 20,000-square-foot Makerspace—a high-tech facility designed for hands-on learning, creativity, and innovation—though families should confirm which students have access and how often.

The Capitol Hill location in Ward 7 places the school in a historic DC neighborhood, though families should research transportation options and commute times from their home address, as Ward 7 covers a substantial geographic area.

Programs and Approach

As a DC public charter school, Center City PCS - Capitol Hill offers tuition-free public education with the flexibility that comes with charter school governance. The school's stated mission emphasizes moral character building alongside academic achievement, suggesting that social-emotional learning and values education are integrated into the school day.

The public service component of the mission indicates that students may participate in community engagement activities or service learning projects, helping them understand their role as DC residents and future leaders. Families interested in schools that emphasize civic responsibility and character development may find this approach appealing.

Enrollment for the upcoming school year typically takes place through the My School DC common lottery system, which opens each fall for the following school year. Families can list Center City PCS - Capitol Hill among their school choices and rank it according to their preference. The My School DC system allows parents to apply to multiple schools—both DCPS and charter—with one application. Families new to the District or unfamiliar with the process should visit the My School DC website for lottery deadlines, waitlist procedures, and enrollment timelines.

Visiting and Contact

Center City PCS - Capitol Hill is located at 1503 East Capitol Street SE in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of Ward 7. Families interested in learning more about the school, scheduling a tour, or getting current enrollment information should visit the school's website at http://www.centercitypcs.org/ or call 202-547-7556 to speak with the front office staff.