Coolidge High School

At a Glance

Coolidge High School is a public high school serving grades 9–12 in the Takoma neighborhood of Ward 4. As part of the DC Public Schools system, Coolidge is committed to preparing students for post-secondary education through a comprehensive approach that addresses academic, social, and emotional development. The school offers both a traditional program and a selective Early College Academy (ECA) pathway, allowing families to choose the educational structure that best fits their student's goals and learning style.

Located in the upper northwest section of the District, Coolidge serves a diverse population of high school students working toward graduation and college readiness. The school's dual-program structure means families can apply to one or both options, depending on their student's academic profile and interests.

What Parents Should Know

Coolidge High School operates within the My School DC lottery system, which is the centralized application process for all DCPS and participating public charter schools in the District. Families interested in Coolidge can apply through this system, and because it's a neighborhood school, students living in the boundary area typically have priority placement. However, the Early College Academy is a selective program with its own admissions requirements and selection criteria, so families interested in that pathway should review those specifications carefully before applying.

The school serves exclusively high school grades (9–12), meaning students will need to transition in from a middle school and won't have the continuity of a combined middle-high school environment. This grade configuration allows Coolidge to focus specifically on the developmental and academic needs of high schoolers, including college preparation and career readiness. Parents should plan for this transition point and consider how their student handles new environments and larger school settings.

Coolidge requires uniforms, which can simplify morning routines and reduce clothing costs for families, though it also means an upfront investment in appropriate attire. The school's location on 5th Street NW in the Takoma neighborhood puts it in a residential area of Ward 4, accessible by public transportation and situated in a community with a mix of longtime residents and newer families.

The dual-pathway structure—traditional program and Early College Academy—means not all students at Coolidge are experiencing the same curriculum or schedule. Families should understand which program their student is enrolled in and what expectations, opportunities, and requirements come with that choice. The ECA option is designed for students seeking an accelerated or more rigorous academic experience with specific post-secondary goals.

Programs and Approach

Calvin Coolidge High School's mission centers on providing students with the academic, social, and emotional skills necessary for a smooth transition to post-secondary education. This mission reflects a holistic approach to high school education that recognizes students need more than just coursework to succeed after graduation. The school offers Advanced Placement courses for students ready for college-level academics while still in high school, along with Arts Integration and Blended Learning approaches that incorporate different teaching modalities.

Career and Technical Education programs give students practical skills and exposure to potential career paths, while the JROTC program provides leadership development and discipline for interested students. Interscholastic sports offer opportunities for physical development, teamwork, and school community involvement. These varied offerings suggest Coolidge aims to serve students with different interests, learning styles, and post-graduation plans.

The Early College Academy represents a more selective track within the school, designed for students who meet specific academic criteria and are ready for an accelerated path. Families interested in this option should review the admissions requirements and application process, which differs from the general Coolidge admissions. As a DCPS school, enrollment happens through My School DC, and families can express interest in both the traditional program and the ECA during the application window.

Visiting and Contact

Coolidge High School is located at 6315 5th Street NW in the Takoma neighborhood of Ward 4. Families can reach the school at 202-671-6080 or visit the DCPS school profile page at http://profiles.dcps.dc.gov/coolidge for current information about tours, enrollment, and programs.