Cornerstone Schools of Washington, D.C., Inc.

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At a Glance

Cornerstone Schools of Washington, D.C., Inc. is a parochial school serving students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade in the Fort Dupont neighborhood of Ward 7. As a faith-based institution, the school integrates Christian values and teachings throughout its educational program, serving families seeking a Christ-centered learning environment. The PK-12 configuration means families can potentially keep their children in one school community from early childhood through high school graduation, fostering long-term relationships and continuity in their educational journey.

What Parents Should Know

As a parochial school, Cornerstone operates independently from the DC Public Schools system and does not participate in the My School DC lottery. Families interested in enrollment will need to contact the school directly to learn about their application process, timing, and any requirements specific to faith-based admission. Because this is a private religious school, tuition and fees apply, and parents should inquire early about costs, payment plans, and whether any financial assistance or scholarship programs are available.

The PK-12 grade span is relatively unusual in DC and offers both advantages and considerations for families. Students can potentially remain in the same school community for their entire pre-college education, which can provide stability and avoid the stress of multiple school transitions. However, families should ask about class sizes at different grade levels and how the school maintains age-appropriate programming across such a wide developmental range, from preschoolers to high school seniors.

Located in Fort Dupont in Ward 7, the school serves a part of Southeast DC that has fewer school options than some other neighborhoods. Families should consider transportation logistics, including whether the school offers busing or carpool coordination, and how the location fits with their work commute and daily schedules. The school's position as a faith-based option in this area may make it particularly attractive to families in Ward 7 and surrounding areas seeking religious education without traveling across the city.

Parents exploring parochial schools should understand that religious instruction and observance will be integrated into daily school life. This typically includes prayer, religious studies classes, chapel or worship services, and expectations that families support the school's faith mission. Prospective families should ask specific questions about what this looks like in practice at different grade levels and whether non-denominational Christian families or those from specific denominations are the primary community.

Programs and Approach

As a parochial school, Cornerstone operates with a mission to provide Christ-centered education while maintaining academic rigor. The school's stated approach emphasizes partnership among families, the school itself, and the broader community, with a goal of developing students as servant leaders. This philosophy typically means that character development, service learning, and spiritual formation are woven throughout the academic program rather than treated as separate activities.

The grade configuration covering early childhood through high school requires different pedagogical approaches for different age groups. Elementary grades typically focus on foundational skills in literacy and numeracy within a nurturing environment, while middle school addresses the developmental needs of adolescents, and high school prepares students for college and career readiness. Families should inquire about how teachers are trained and supported across these various levels, and what resources the school provides for each division.

Because parochial schools set their own curriculum and standards, parents should ask detailed questions about academic programming, including what curricula are used, how the school measures student progress, how it serves students with different learning needs, and what advanced opportunities exist for high school students. Questions about college counseling, extracurricular activities, athletics, and arts programs are also worth exploring during the research process.

Visiting and Contact

Cornerstone Schools of Washington, D.C., Inc. is located at 3742 Ely Place SE in the Fort Dupont neighborhood. Families can reach the school at (202) 575-0027 or visit https://www.cornerstone-schools.org for more information about tours, admissions timelines, and the school's specific programs and philosophy.