Kennedy Institute

At a Glance

Kennedy Institute is a Catholic school serving students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade in the Michigan Park neighborhood of Northeast DC's Ward 5. As one of the few schools in the District offering a continuous PK–12 education under one institution, Kennedy Institute provides families the opportunity for long-term educational continuity within a faith-based environment.

The school's location on Buchanan Street places it in a well-established residential neighborhood with strong community ties, accessible to families throughout Ward 5 and beyond who are seeking a Catholic education that spans from early childhood through high school graduation.

What Parents Should Know

As a Catholic school, Kennedy Institute operates independently of the DC Public Schools system and the public charter school lottery. Families interested in enrollment apply directly to the school, and admissions processes typically include an application form, academic records review for older students, and sometimes an interview or school visit. Catholic schools in DC often give enrollment preference to families who are members of supporting parishes, though many welcome students of all faith backgrounds.

The PK–12 structure means families can potentially keep their children in one school community from age three or four through high school graduation, eliminating the typical transitions between elementary, middle, and high school buildings that occur in most educational settings. This continuity can be particularly appealing for families who value stable peer groups and long-term relationships with teachers and administrators, though it also means the school must meet the distinct developmental needs of toddlers, elementary students, middle schoolers, and teenagers all within one institution.

Tuition is a key consideration for any private or parochial school. Catholic schools in Washington DC typically charge annual tuition, though many offer need-based financial aid and sliding scale arrangements to make education more accessible to working families. Parents should inquire directly about current tuition rates, available financial assistance, and any additional fees for materials, activities, or extended care programs.

The Michigan Park location offers a neighborhood setting with residential streets and community amenities. Families should consider transportation logistics, as Catholic schools draw from across the city rather than from defined neighborhood boundaries. Street parking is generally available in this part of Ward 5, and families may want to explore whether the school offers bus service or carpooling coordination.

Programs and Approach

Catholic schools in the District integrate religious education and faith formation into daily school life alongside traditional academic subjects. Students typically participate in religious instruction, attend Mass or prayer services, and engage with Catholic values and traditions as part of the school culture. Families considering Kennedy Institute should be prepared for this faith-integrated approach, regardless of their own religious background.

The extended grade span from pre-K through 12th grade requires the school to maintain distinct programs appropriate for early learners, elementary students building foundational skills, middle school students navigating early adolescence, and high school students preparing for college or career paths. This structure can create a family atmosphere where older students mentor younger ones and siblings remain together in one school community.

Private school admission is handled directly by the school rather than through the citywide My School DC lottery used for public and public charter schools. Interested families should reach out to Kennedy Institute well in advance of their desired enrollment date to learn about application timelines, required documents, and any entrance assessments used for grade placement.

Visiting and Contact

Kennedy Institute is located at 801 Buchanan St NE in the Michigan Park neighborhood of Ward 5. Families interested in learning more about the school's programs, scheduling a tour, or beginning the application process should visit the school's website or call directly for current information and availability.