Paul PCS - International High School

At a Glance

Paul PCS - International High School is a public charter high school serving grades 9–12 in the Brightwood neighborhood of Ward 4. Part of the Paul Charter Schools network—one of the oldest charter school organizations in Washington, DC—the International High School occupies a campus at 5800 8th Street NW. The school's mission centers on preparing students for college success while cultivating responsible citizenship, independent thinking, and leadership skills. As a charter school, Paul International serves DC resident students through the citywide enrollment system and does not require students to wear uniforms, though admission does not require a lottery at this location.

What Parents Should Know

As a public charter school, Paul PCS - International High School participates in the My School DC enrollment system, the unified application platform DC families use to apply to charter and some DCPS schools. However, this particular campus operates without a lottery requirement, which may simplify the admissions process for interested families. The school serves only high school grades (9–12), meaning families will need to consider middle school options separately if they have younger students, though the Paul Charter Schools network does operate a middle school program on its broader campus for grades 5-8.

The Brightwood location in Ward 4 puts the school in Northwest DC, an area served by Metro bus lines along Georgia Avenue and public transit connections that high school students often navigate independently. Parents should verify current transportation options and consider how their student would commute to the 8th Street NW campus. Since Paul Charter Schools describes itself as having a "stunning campus" and touts its legacy as one of DC's oldest charter networks, families visiting should expect an established school community with developed traditions and systems in place.

The school offers several program options that may appeal to different student interests and post-graduation goals. Advanced Placement courses provide college-level coursework, while dual college enrollment allows students to earn college credits before graduating high school. Career and Technical Education programs offer practical skill-building, and the availability of online learning provides flexibility in how students access coursework. The school also provides Extended Day programming and participates in interscholastic sports for students interested in athletics.

Programs and Approach

Paul PCS - International High School provides a comprehensive high school experience with attention to both academic preparation and character development. The school's mission explicitly aims to prepare students for college while developing qualities like responsible citizenship, independent thought, and leadership—suggesting an approach that balances rigorous academics with personal growth and civic engagement.

The curriculum includes Advanced Placement courses for students seeking college-level challenge and the opportunity to earn college credit through AP exams. Dual college enrollment opportunities give students another pathway to begin college coursework while still in high school. For students interested in hands-on learning and career exploration, Career and Technical Education programming provides practical skills and industry exposure. Online learning options add flexibility to course scheduling and may support students who benefit from alternative learning formats.

Beyond academics, the school offers arts integration programming that weaves creative expression into the learning experience. A restorative justice program indicates the school's commitment to positive discipline practices and community building. Extended Day programming provides additional time for homework support, enrichment, or activities beyond the regular school day. Students interested in athletics can participate in interscholastic sports, competing with other DC area schools.

As a charter school, Paul International operates independently with its own governance structure while remaining tuition-free and open to all DC residents. Families apply through the My School DC system, typically during the annual enrollment window that opens each year. Since this location does not require a lottery, the admissions process may differ from other charter schools—families should contact the school directly to understand current enrollment procedures and availability.

Visiting and Contact

Paul PCS - International High School is located at 5800 8th Street NW in the Brightwood neighborhood of Ward 4. Families can reach the school at 202-291-7499 or visit http://www.paulcharter.org/ for information about tours, enrollment deadlines, and current programming details.