Milton Gottesman Jewish Day School South Campus

“With Soul in Mind”

At a Glance

Milton Gottesman Jewish Day School South Campus is a parochial school located in the Sixteenth Street Heights neighborhood of Ward 4, serving students from Pre-K through 8th grade. As part of the only Jewish day school in the nation's capital, this campus offers families an independent Jewish educational environment that combines general academics with Jewish studies and culture. The school operates two campuses and serves approximately 480 students across its Pre-K through 8th grade program, providing a continuous educational pathway for families seeking a Jewish day school education in Washington, DC.

What Parents Should Know

As an independent parochial school, Milton Gottesman operates outside the My School DC lottery system and has its own admissions process and timeline. Families interested in enrollment should reach out directly to the school well in advance, as independent school admissions often begin a year before the intended start date, and spaces may be limited depending on grade level and enrollment capacity.

The Pre-K through 8th grade configuration means students can remain within the same school community for their entire elementary and middle school years, which can provide continuity in relationships, values, and educational approach. Families should consider what high school options align with their goals after 8th grade graduation, as students will need to transition to a different school for their secondary education.

The Sixteenth Street Heights location in Ward 4 places the South Campus in an established residential neighborhood with good access to major DC thoroughfares. Parents should consider their commute and transportation logistics, particularly if they're coming from other parts of the city or nearby Maryland or Virginia communities, as many independent school families travel from across the metropolitan area.

As a Jewish day school, the curriculum integrates both general studies and Jewish studies, and the school community observes Jewish holidays and traditions. Families considering this school should understand that Jewish education and identity formation are central to the school's mission, and the calendar and daily schedule will reflect this dual curriculum approach.

Programs and Approach

Jewish day schools typically offer an integrated curriculum that balances secular academic subjects with Hebrew language instruction, Jewish texts, holidays, and values education. Students generally spend part of their day in general studies courses covering math, science, language arts, and social studies, while also engaging with Jewish learning and Hebrew language development. This dual-curriculum model is designed to prepare students both academically and to foster Jewish knowledge and identity.

As an independent parochial school, Milton Gottesman sets its own educational philosophy and approach rather than following district mandates or charter frameworks. The school describes itself as pluralistic, which in Jewish educational contexts typically means welcoming families from different Jewish backgrounds and denominational affiliations while creating common ground in Jewish learning and community.

Independent schools like Milton Gottesman generally have their own admissions requirements, which may include applications, family interviews, student visits, and previous school records. Tuition is required at independent schools, though many offer financial aid programs for families who qualify. Prospective families should contact the admissions office directly to learn about the specific application process, timing, tuition costs, and financial assistance options.

The Pre-K through 8th grade span allows the school to build a cohesive community where older students can serve as role models and younger students benefit from an established school culture. Middle school students in grades 6-8 remain integrated within the broader school community while typically receiving age-appropriate curricula and increased independence.

Visiting and Contact

Milton Gottesman Jewish Day School South Campus is located at 4715 16th Street NW in the Sixteenth Street Heights neighborhood of Ward 4. Families interested in learning more about the school, scheduling a tour, or beginning the admissions process should visit https://www.miltongottesman.org or call (202) 291-5737 for current information about enrollment and visiting opportunities.