Georgetown Day School High School

“Cultivating curious, compassionate, and courageous people”

At a Glance

Georgetown Day School High School is the upper school division of one of Washington DC's most established independent schools, serving students in grades 9-12 at its Davenport Street campus in Northwest DC. Located in Ward 3, the school occupies a residential neighborhood setting while maintaining its founding mission from 1945, when it opened as the first integrated school in the nation's capital. As a college preparatory program, the high school enrolls students who are working toward four-year college admission following graduation.

The school operates as a private, independent institution with a PreK-12 structure, meaning high school students are part of a larger school community that spans early childhood through secondary education. Families considering Georgetown Day School High School should understand they're looking at an independent school option that requires private tuition and a competitive application process.

What Parents Should Know

Georgetown Day School High School admits students through a private school application process that typically includes transcripts, testing, recommendations, and interviews. Because this is an independent school rather than a DCPS or public charter school, families apply directly to the school rather than through the My School DC lottery system. The admissions timeline generally follows the independent school calendar, with applications due in the winter for fall enrollment.

The grade 9-12 configuration means students typically enter as freshmen, though the school may accept applications for other grade levels depending on space availability. Being part of a PreK-12 institution means that many ninth graders have attended the lower and middle school divisions, so incoming high school students from other schools will be joining an established community. Families new to the school at the high school level should consider how their student will integrate into existing peer groups and social structures.

The Ward 3 location places the school in upper Northwest Washington, an area that may require significant commuting for families living in other parts of the District. Parents should factor in transportation logistics, as this is not a neighborhood school assignment and the school's independent status means DCPS transportation is not provided. The Davenport Street address sits in a residential area, which shapes the campus environment and daily logistics for drop-off and pick-up.

As a college preparatory program, the school's stated mission is preparing students for admission to four-year colleges and universities. Families should expect an academically rigorous environment designed for students planning to continue their education beyond high school.

Programs and Approach

Georgetown Day School High School operates as a traditional private college preparatory program focused on academic preparation for higher education. The school reports that 100% of its graduates continue to college, indicating a student body and curriculum aligned with four-year college admission standards. As an independent school, Georgetown Day sets its own curriculum, calendar, and educational approach without following DCPS standards or requirements.

Private independent schools like Georgetown Day typically offer smaller class sizes, specialized attention, and resources funded through tuition and development efforts. Families considering this option should request detailed information about tuition costs, financial aid availability, and payment structures directly from the school, as these can represent significant multi-year financial commitments.

The school's founding history as the first integrated school in Washington DC in 1945 remains part of its institutional identity. This historical context may inform the school's approach to diversity, equity, and community values, though families should investigate current policies and practices directly with the administration.

Because this is a private school, admission is selective and enrollment is not guaranteed. Families interested in Georgetown Day School High School should begin the research and application process well in advance of their desired enrollment date.

Visiting and Contact

Georgetown Day School High School is located at 4200 Davenport Street NW in Washington, DC's Ward 3. Prospective families should visit https://www.gds.org for information about tours, admission timelines, and current program details, or call (202) 274-3200 to speak with the admissions office.