John Lewis Elementary School

At a Glance

John Lewis Elementary School is a public elementary school located in the Sixteenth Street Heights neighborhood of Ward 4, serving students from Pre-K3 through 5th grade. Operating as a School-wide Enrichment Model (SEM) school, JLES provides advanced-level enrichment opportunities for all students throughout the day, including online tools, small group experiences, and off-campus excursions. The school's mission centers on developing continuous learners who embody justice, leadership, enrichment, and service while engaging in the joy of learning. With a foundation built on strong relationships with students, families, and the diverse community it serves, John Lewis Elementary takes a whole-child approach to elementary education.

What Parents Should Know

As a DC Public Schools institution, John Lewis Elementary participates in the My School DC common lottery system for enrollment. Families interested in Pre-K3, Pre-K4, or kindergarten should submit applications during the annual lottery period, typically held in winter for the following fall. The school's grade configuration means students can remain in the same building from Pre-K3 through 5th grade, providing continuity over seven potential years before transitioning to middle school.

The school's location at 1335 Farragut Street NW places it in Sixteenth Street Heights, a Ward 4 neighborhood with residential character. Families considering John Lewis Elementary should note that the School-wide Enrichment Model approach means all students have access to advanced-level enrichment activities, not just those identified for gifted programs. This model emphasizes developing talents across the full student body through exposure to challenging content and experiences.

Class sizes at John Lewis Elementary typically range from 13 to 25 students, offering a relatively intimate learning environment within the public school system. The school provides specialist instruction in Physical Education, Drama/Theatre, Art, Music, Dance, and Library, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education beyond core academic subjects. Parents should contact the school directly or visit the website to learn about current programming and any updates to enrichment opportunities.

Programs and Approach

John Lewis Elementary School implements the School-wide Enrichment Model, a research-based approach that brings advanced learning opportunities to all students rather than reserving them for a select few. Throughout the school day, scholars engage with enrichment through multiple formats including digital learning tools, targeted small group instruction, and educational field trips beyond campus. This model reflects the school's commitment to developing each student's potential through exposure to challenging, engaging content.

The school's mission emphasizes four core values: justice, leadership, enrichment, and service. These values guide the educational experience and shape the school community culture. By grounding its work in "strong love for students, families, and our diverse community," John Lewis Elementary aims to create an environment where academic growth happens alongside character development and community engagement.

As a DC Public Schools elementary, John Lewis Elementary follows DCPS curriculum frameworks and assessment schedules while incorporating its enrichment-focused approach. The Pre-K3 through 5th grade span means the school serves children from early childhood through the upper elementary years, requiring staff expertise across a wide developmental range. Specialist classes in arts, physical education, and library sciences complement classroom instruction, giving students regular exposure to subjects that support creativity, physical development, and information literacy.

Families exploring DC public school options should understand that enrollment happens through the My School DC platform rather than directly through the school. The lottery system considers factors including sibling priority and geographic boundaries when making placements. Interested families can learn more about lottery timelines, application requirements, and school-specific details through both the My School DC website and John Lewis Elementary's own online resources.

Visiting and Contact

John Lewis Elementary School is located at 1335 Farragut Street NW in the Sixteenth Street Heights neighborhood of Ward 4. Families can reach the school at (202) 576-6226 or visit https://www.johnlewises.org/ for information about tours, enrollment, and current programming.