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Excel Academy

publicWard 8

Barry Farm · Grades PK3–8

2026–27 enrollment openGet lottery alerts:

OSSE STAR Rating

SY 2018-19
2 / 5 stars · Score 23.0 / 100

Source: OSSE School Report Card — official rating from DC Office of the State Superintendent of Education.

About Excel Academy

Excel Academy is Washington DC's first all-girls public school, operating with a mission to Educate, Empower, and Excel every student. This unique environment integrates Arts Integration into the curriculum, allowing girls to connect subjects creatively. Blended Learning approaches combine online resources with in-person instruction, while the Restorative Justice Program builds a supportive and accountable community. Outside core classes, girls can expand their horizons through enrichment opportunities such as Forensic Science Club, Swimming, Robotics Club, and Drama Club. The school day is from 8:40 a.m. to 3:20 p.m., and a uniform is required. For admissions, lottery priority is extended to siblings currently attending or siblings who have received an offer. Excel Academy strives to develop well-rounded young women.

Excel Academy is Washington DC's first all-girls public school where our mission is to Education, Empower and Excel.

Specialized Programs

Arts IntegrationBlended LearningRestorative Justice ProgramSingle Gender CampusSTEM Focus

Enrichment

Forensic Science Club · Swimming · Robotics Club · Drama Club

🕐 8:40 a.m.-3:20 p.m.👔 Uniform required

Address

2501 MARTIN LUTHER KING JR AVENUE SE

Enrollment Lottery

Required

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Free transit for students

All DC residents enrolled at Excel Academy (ages 5–21) qualify for Kids Ride Free — a SmarTrip card that grants free Metrobus, Metrorail, and DC Circulator rides on school days.

Specialties

Arts IntegrationBlended LearningRestorative Justice ProgramSingle Gender CampusSTEM Focus

Frequently Asked Questions

What grades does Excel Academy serve?+

Excel Academy serves grades PK3–8 in the Barry Farm neighborhood of Washington DC.

What ward is Excel Academy in?+

Excel Academy is located in Ward 8, Barry Farm, Washington DC.

How do I apply to Excel Academy?+

Excel Academy is DCPS (DC Public Schools) that requires a lottery application. Applications are submitted through MySchoolDC (myschooldc.org), which opens each November and closes in early February. Results are released in late March.

What is Excel Academy's OSSE star rating?+

Excel Academy received a 2/5 star rating (★★☆☆☆) from the DC Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) in SY 2018-19. OSSE ratings measure academic achievement, growth, and attendance.

Is Excel Academy tuition-free?+

Yes. As a DC public school, Excel Academy is tuition-free and open to all DC residents regardless of ward or neighborhood.

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