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Ketcham Elementary School

publicWard 8

Anacostia · Grades PK3–5

2026–27 enrollment openGet lottery alerts:

OSSE STAR Rating

SY 2018-19
★★★★★
3 / 5 stars · Score 49.0 / 100
Enrollment: 349

Source: OSSE School Report Card — official rating from DC Office of the State Superintendent of Education.

About Ketcham Elementary School

John H. Ketcham Elementary School, situated in Historic Anacostia, embraces its heritage by collaborating with community partners, staff, and parents to support its 244 scholars. The school integrates Blended Learning, a Restorative Justice Program, and a STEM Focus into its curriculum, complemented by an outdoor learning classroom and school garden. Ketcham’s commitment to academic achievement is recognized by its two-year receipt of the Empower K12 Bold Performance Award for exceeding PARCC performance (2018-2019). Students can participate in enrichments such as Girls on the Run, Girls Scouts, STEM, DC Scores, and Cooking Club. School hours are 8:00 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., and a uniform is required. Lottery priority favors in-boundary families with siblings attending or offered a spot, as well as siblings attending. This school is well-suited for families seeking a structured academic environment with an emphasis on STEM and engaging outdoor learning.

“At John H. Ketcham Elementary School we are proud of our rich history and our location in Historic Anacostia. Our dedicated community partners, staff, and parents work with our scholars to enrich their lives by promoting academic and social growth. Our motto at Ketcham Elementary School is "Our Students. Our Future. Our Responsibility."”

Specialized Programs

Blended LearningRestorative Justice ProgramSchool GardenSTEM Focus

Enrichment

Girls on the Run · Girls Scouts · STEM · DC Scores · Cooking Club

🕐 8:00 a.m.-3:15 p.m.👔 Uniform required

Address

1919 15TH STREET SE

Enrollment Lottery

Required

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Free transit for students

All DC residents enrolled at Ketcham Elementary School (ages 5–21) qualify for Kids Ride Free — a SmarTrip card that grants free Metrobus, Metrorail, and DC Circulator rides on school days.

School Hours

From Google business listing — confirm with the school directly.

  • Monday7:24 AM to 4:24 PM
  • Tuesday7:24 AM to 4:24 PM
  • Wednesday7:24 AM to 4:24 PM
  • Thursday7:24 AM to 4:24 PM
  • Friday7:24 AM to 4:24 PM
  • SaturdayClosed
  • SundayClosed

Specialties

Blended LearningRestorative Justice ProgramSchool GardenSTEM Focus

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Frequently Asked Questions

What grades does Ketcham Elementary School serve?+

Ketcham Elementary School serves grades PK3–5 in the Anacostia neighborhood of Washington DC.

What ward is Ketcham Elementary School in?+

Ketcham Elementary School is located in Ward 8, Anacostia, Washington DC.

How do I apply to Ketcham Elementary School?+

Ketcham Elementary School is DCPS (DC Public Schools) that requires a lottery application. Applications are submitted through MySchoolDC (myschooldc.org), which opens each November and closes in early February. Results are released in late March.

What is Ketcham Elementary School's OSSE star rating?+

Ketcham Elementary School received a 3/5 star rating (★★★☆☆) from the DC Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) in SY 2018-19. OSSE ratings measure academic achievement, growth, and attendance.

Is Ketcham Elementary School tuition-free?+

Yes. As a DC public school, Ketcham Elementary School is tuition-free and open to all DC residents regardless of ward or neighborhood.

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