Georgetown Day School Lower/Middle School

“A warm, diverse, and inclusive environment for every learner”

At a Glance

Georgetown Day School Lower/Middle School is a private independent school serving students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade at its Davenport Street campus in Northwest DC's Ward 3. Founded on principles of diversity and inclusion, GDS provides a progressive educational experience that emphasizes both academic excellence and social-emotional growth. The school's PK-8 configuration allows students to remain in a continuous learning community throughout their elementary and middle school years, building lasting relationships with peers and teachers while developing the skills and confidence needed for high school and beyond.

What Parents Should Know

Georgetown Day School operates as a private independent school, which means families apply directly to the school rather than through the My School DC lottery system used by DC Public Schools and public charter schools. The admissions process typically involves submitting an application, student records, recommendations, and participating in a family interview, with application timelines generally opening in the fall for the following school year. Tuition and financial aid are part of the private school model, and families should contact the school directly to learn about current costs and available financial assistance programs.

The PK-8 grade configuration offers both advantages and considerations for families. Students benefit from a stable, continuous educational environment where they can grow from early childhood through early adolescence in the same school community. However, families should plan for a high school transition after eighth grade, which means researching and applying to secondary schools during the middle school years. This structure can foster strong school identity and deep peer relationships, as students remain together for up to nine years.

The Ward 3 location in Northwest DC places the school in a residential neighborhood with tree-lined streets, though families should consider transportation logistics depending on where they live in the city. While some families may live within walking or biking distance, others will need to factor in commute times, carpooling arrangements, or school-provided transportation options if available.

As a private school, Georgetown Day School sets its own calendar, policies, and educational approach independent of DC Public Schools regulations. This autonomy allows the school to design programming and curricula aligned with its specific mission and values, but also means families should thoroughly understand the school's philosophy and expectations before applying to ensure a good fit.

Programs and Approach

Georgetown Day School emphasizes a progressive educational philosophy that balances intellectual rigor with age-appropriate exploration and play, particularly in the early childhood years. The school's commitment to diversity and inclusion shapes its approach to community building, curriculum design, and student support. Students are encouraged to develop as critical thinkers who ask questions, engage with complex ideas, and understand their roles as members of a larger community.

The lower school years focus on building foundational academic skills while nurturing children's natural curiosity and love of learning. As students progress into the middle school grades, they encounter increasingly sophisticated academic content while also navigating the social and emotional challenges of adolescence. The school aims to create an environment where students feel known, supported, and challenged to grow.

Private school families should expect active involvement in the school community, from participating in parent organizations to attending school events and supporting fundraising efforts that supplement tuition revenue. The independent school model typically offers smaller class sizes and more individualized attention than many public school settings, though this comes with the financial commitment of tuition.

Visiting and Contact

Georgetown Day School Lower/Middle School is located at 4200 Davenport Street NW in Northwest Washington's Ward 3. Prospective families interested in learning more about the school, scheduling a tour, or beginning the admissions process should visit https://www.gds.org or call (202) 295-6200 for current information about open houses, application deadlines, and enrollment procedures.