E.L. Haynes PCS - High School

At a Glance

E.L. Haynes Public Charter School - High School serves nearly 450 students in grades 9–12 in Ward 4's Petworth neighborhood. As a charter high school focused on college preparation, E.L. Haynes combines a rigorous academic program with a mission centered on equity and preparing its diverse student body for post-secondary success. The school offers nine Advanced Placement courses alongside numerous extracurricular opportunities, athletics, and pre-college programming designed to support students through their high school journey and into higher education.

What Parents Should Know

As a DC public charter school, E.L. Haynes High School participates in the My School DC lottery system for admissions. Families interested in enrolling their child should submit an application through the common lottery during the annual application window, typically in the winter for the following school year. Because charter schools serve as public schools of choice in the District, there is no tuition, and admission is determined by lottery rather than entrance exams or academic requirements.

The school's 9–12 grade configuration means students typically enter as freshmen and remain through graduation, creating a dedicated high school experience without middle school grades in the building. This structure allows the school to focus entirely on the unique academic and social-emotional needs of high school students, from ninth-grade transition support through senior year college preparation. Families with younger students should note that E.L. Haynes also operates separate campuses for earlier grades, though high school enrollment is handled independently.

Located on Kansas Avenue NW in Petworth, the school sits in a neighborhood well-connected by public transportation and residential streets. Ward 4 families and those from surrounding areas often consider E.L. Haynes when looking for a college-preparatory charter high school option. The school's equity-focused mission emphasizes serving all students in its diverse community, and its size of nearly 450 students offers a more intimate environment than some comprehensive high schools.

Parents evaluating E.L. Haynes should understand that the nine AP courses represent substantial college-level learning opportunities, and the school also mentions dual college enrollment options that may allow students to earn college credits while still in high school. The emphasis on pre-college programming suggests intentional support systems designed to help students navigate college applications, financial aid, and the transition to post-secondary education.

Programs and Approach

E.L. Haynes High School centers its academic program on college preparation, offering coursework designed to challenge students and build the skills needed for post-secondary success. The availability of nine Advanced Placement classes gives motivated students opportunities to engage with college-level material across multiple subject areas, potentially earning college credit and strengthening their transcripts. The school also provides dual college enrollment opportunities, allowing qualified students to take actual college courses as part of their high school experience.

Beyond academics, E.L. Haynes emphasizes creating what it describes as a "positive and enriching culture." This includes interscholastic athletics, giving students chances to compete in team sports while developing leadership and collaboration skills. The school offers various extracurricular activities that complement classroom learning and help students explore interests, build community, and develop well-rounded profiles for college applications.

The school's commitment to equity suggests an intentional focus on ensuring all students, regardless of background, receive the support and resources needed to succeed. Pre-college programming appears to be a significant component of the school's approach, helping students and families navigate the complex process of preparing for, applying to, and transitioning into college. As with all DC charter schools, enrollment is managed through the My School DC unified lottery system, and interested families should visit the school's website or contact the admissions office to learn about application timelines and visit opportunities.

Visiting and Contact

E.L. Haynes Public Charter School - High School is located at 4501 Kansas Avenue NW in the Petworth neighborhood. Families interested in learning more about the school, scheduling a tour, or understanding the application process should visit www.elhaynes.org or call 202-667-4446 for current information.