Hart Middle School

At a Glance

Charles Hart Middle School is a public middle school serving grades 6 through 8 in the Congress Heights neighborhood of Ward 8 in Southeast Washington, DC. As part of the District of Columbia Public Schools system, Hart Middle School serves families throughout the area with a mission focused on transparency, open communication, and collaboration among students, families, and staff. The school emphasizes preparing students to become lifelong learners and positive citizens in their community.

What Parents Should Know

As a DC public school, Hart Middle School participates in the My School DC lottery system for enrollment. Families living within the school's boundary area receive priority placement, though out-of-boundary families may also apply during the annual lottery period. For the most current boundary information and lottery details, families should visit the My School DC website or contact the school directly.

The middle school grade configuration means students typically enter in sixth grade and remain through eighth grade before transitioning to high school. This three-year span represents a critical period of academic and social development, and families should consider how the school supports students through this transition period and prepares them for high school success.

Hart Middle School's location in Congress Heights places it in a community with strong neighborhood ties and accessible public transportation options. The school's stated commitment to community engagement and collaboration suggests families can expect opportunities to stay connected with their child's education. Parents should inquire about specific parent involvement opportunities, communication channels, and how the school implements its mission of transparency in practice.

Given that middle school represents a significant transition from elementary school, families should ask about academic support services, enrichment opportunities, and how the school addresses the unique social and emotional needs of middle schoolers. Understanding the school's approach to student support and discipline can help families determine if it's the right fit for their child.

Programs and Approach

Hart Middle School operates as part of the DC Public Schools system, which means families enroll through the centralized My School DC lottery process. The application window typically opens in the fall for the following school year, and families can list multiple schools in order of preference. In-boundary students are guaranteed a spot, while out-of-boundary applicants are placed based on lottery results and available space.

The school's mission emphasizes creating lifelong learners and positive citizens, suggesting an educational approach that extends beyond academics alone to include character development and community engagement. The school's commitment to transparency and open communication indicates that families can expect regular updates and opportunities to collaborate with teachers and administrators on their child's education.

As a DCPS middle school, Hart follows the district's academic standards and curriculum frameworks while maintaining its own school culture and community identity. Middle school programming typically includes core academic subjects, electives, and opportunities for students to explore interests and develop skills that will serve them in high school and beyond.

Families interested in Hart Middle School should reach out directly to learn about current programs, extracurricular activities, and the day-to-day experience of students. Visiting the school, attending open houses, and speaking with current families can provide valuable insight into whether the school's approach aligns with a family's educational goals and values.

Visiting and Contact

Charles Hart Middle School is located at 601 Mississippi Avenue SE in the Congress Heights neighborhood. Families interested in learning more about the school, scheduling a tour, or accessing current enrollment information should visit the school's website at https://www.charleshartmiddledc.org/ or call 202-671-6426 to speak with school staff directly.