Roots PCS

At a Glance

Roots Public Charter School serves students in grades PK3 through 5 in the Manor Park neighborhood of Ward 4. This African-centered charter school combines rigorous academics with a curriculum rooted in African and African-American history, culture, and values. The school's mission focuses on guiding young learners toward academic excellence while developing exemplary character and social responsibility within a culturally affirming environment.

As an early childhood and elementary charter school, Roots PCS provides a complete pre-kindergarten through fifth grade experience, allowing families to keep their children in one school community throughout these critical developmental years before transitioning to middle school.

What Parents Should Know

Roots PCS participates in the My School DC lottery system, which is how families apply to DC charter schools. Applications open each fall for the following school year, and families can list Roots among their choices during the common lottery period. Like all DC charter schools, Roots cannot charge tuition and must accept students through this lottery process rather than selective admissions.

The school's grade configuration means families can enroll children as young as three years old in PK3 and keep them in the same school community through fifth grade. This six or seven-year span allows for continuity and relationship-building with staff and families, though parents will need to research middle school options well before their child completes fifth grade.

The African-centered approach mentioned in the school's mission is central to the educational philosophy at Roots. This means students learn within a framework that intentionally centers African history, culture, and contributions across subject areas, offering a culturally responsive learning environment that may be particularly meaningful for Black families seeking an education that reflects their heritage.

The Manor Park location in Ward 4 places the school along Kennedy Street NW in a residential neighborhood in upper northwest DC. Families should consider transportation logistics, as the school's location may require planning around commute times and available transit or parking options depending on where in the city you live.

Programs and Approach

Charter schools in DC operate independently from DC Public Schools but receive public funding and must meet accountability standards set by the DC Public Charter School Board. Roots PCS, like all charter schools, has flexibility in curriculum design and school structure, which allows it to maintain its distinctive African-centered educational approach while meeting DC learning standards.

The early childhood years—PK3, PK4, and kindergarten—are offered alongside the elementary grades, creating an age span from approximately three years old through eleven years old in one building. Schools serving this range typically need to balance the developmental needs of very young learners with those of upper elementary students who are preparing for the increased independence of middle school.

An African-centered learning environment means that instruction, materials, and school culture intentionally incorporate African and African-American perspectives, history, and contributions. This approach aims to build cultural pride and identity while teaching the full academic curriculum that students need to progress to the next level.

Parents interested in the school's specific academic programs, enrichment offerings, daily schedule, or classroom approach should contact the school directly or visit the website, as these operational details can evolve from year to year based on staffing, resources, and community needs.

Visiting and Contact

Roots Public Charter School is located at 15 Kennedy Street NW in the Manor Park neighborhood. Families interested in learning more about the school's African-centered approach, touring the facility, or getting current enrollment information should visit http://www.rootspcs.org/ or call 202-882-8073 to connect with the admissions team.