Friendship PCS - Southeast Elementary Academy

At a Glance

Friendship Public Charter School - Southeast Elementary Academy serves early childhood and elementary students in grades PreK3 through 3rd grade in the Anacostia neighborhood of Ward 8. As part of the Friendship Public Charter Schools network, this campus focuses specifically on building strong foundational skills during the crucial early learning years. The school emphasizes inquiry-based learning that integrates technology, science, and the arts to develop curious, capable young learners.

Families choosing Southeast Elementary Academy are selecting a school designed around early childhood best practices and academic preparation that sets students up for advanced coursework in later grades. The grade configuration means students will transition to another campus for upper elementary grades, which is typical for schools within multi-campus charter networks.

What Parents Should Know

As a DC public charter school, Friendship PCS - Southeast Elementary Academy participates in the My School DC common lottery system for enrollment. Families interested in the school for the 2024-25 school year or beyond must submit applications through the My School DC portal during the annual lottery window, typically held in late winter and early spring. Because this is a PreK3-3 campus, families should plan ahead for the transition to an upper elementary school after third grade, whether that's within the Friendship network or elsewhere.

The school's location at 645 Milwaukee Place SE puts it in the Anacostia neighborhood, an area that has seen significant community investment in recent years. Families considering this school should factor in their commute and available transportation options, as Ward 8 schools may require more travel time for families living in other parts of the city.

The early grade configuration—stopping at third grade rather than continuing through fifth—means the school can concentrate its resources and expertise entirely on early childhood and primary education. This focused approach allows for age-appropriate facilities, specialized early childhood educators, and programming tailored specifically to younger students without the needs of older elementary students competing for attention and resources.

Parents should understand that the school's Science of Reading approach and structured math programs are designed with a long-term trajectory in mind, aiming to prepare students for Pre-AP courses like Algebra when they reach middle school. This requires continuity of instruction, so families should consider their commitment to remaining within a school network or system that will build on these foundations.

Programs and Approach

Friendship PCS - Southeast Elementary Academy structures its program around two distinct but connected phases. The preschool program uses hands-on, inquiry-based learning that incorporates art, literature, nature, and technology—including age-appropriate coding and robotics activities—to build early literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving skills. This foundation reflects current research about how young children learn best through play, exploration, and meaningful interaction with their environment.

In the kindergarten through third grade years, the school implements Science of Reading methodologies for literacy instruction alongside structured mathematics programming. Small-group instruction allows teachers to provide personalized support matched to each student's level and needs. This differentiated approach helps ensure that students working above grade level stay challenged while those needing additional support receive targeted intervention.

The school describes itself as a vibrant, safe community focused on fostering curiosity and a genuine love for learning—goals that require both strong academic programming and attention to school culture and climate. The integration of technology throughout grade levels, from early robotics exposure through continued STEM learning, reflects preparation for an increasingly digital world while maintaining the hands-on, concrete experiences young learners need.

Visiting and Contact

Friendship PCS - Southeast Elementary Academy is located at 645 Milwaukee Place SE in the Anacostia neighborhood. Families interested in learning more about the school, scheduling a tour, or getting current enrollment information should visit https://www.friendshipschools.org or call 202-562-1980.