St. John's College High School

“You Don't Have to Change Who You Are to Belong at St. John's”

At a Glance

St. John's College High School is a Catholic, college-preparatory high school serving students in grades 9 through 12 in Northwest Washington, DC. Located on Military Road in Ward 4, the school operates in the Lasallian tradition, following the educational philosophy of St. John Baptist de La Salle, the patron saint of teachers. As a parochial institution, St. John's combines rigorous academic preparation with faith formation and service learning.

The school draws students from across the Washington metropolitan area who are seeking a Catholic secondary education grounded in the values of excellence, diversity, leadership, and service. Families choosing St. John's are typically looking for a structured four-year high school experience that prepares students for college while developing their character through a faith-based lens.

What Parents Should Know

As a private parochial school, St. John's College High School operates independently from DC Public Schools and does not participate in the My School DC lottery system. Families interested in enrollment must apply directly through the school's own admissions process, which typically includes an application, academic records, recommendations, and an admissions assessment. Parents should contact the school well in advance of their student's ninth-grade year to understand deadlines and requirements.

The school's grade configuration serves only high school students, meaning families will need to plan for the transition into ninth grade from middle school elsewhere. This can be an advantage for students and parents seeking an environment focused exclusively on the teenage years and college preparation, with faculty and resources dedicated specifically to high school-level academics and developmental needs. There is no need to navigate a later transition to another school for upper grades.

St. John's location on Military Road NW places it in an accessible area of upper Northwest DC, though families should consider transportation logistics, as the school does not necessarily draw from an immediate neighborhood attendance boundary the way DCPS schools do. Many independent and parochial schools arrange carpools or have students commute from various parts of the city and surrounding areas.

Tuition is a significant consideration for families evaluating any private or parochial school. While specific costs vary year to year, families should inquire early about tuition rates, payment plans, and financial aid availability. Many Catholic schools offer need-based assistance to make education accessible to a broader range of families.

The Lasallian educational tradition emphasizes respect for all persons, quality education, and concern for the poor and social justice. Parents interested in a school culture that integrates these values alongside academic rigor may find this philosophy aligns with their family's priorities.

Programs and Approach

St. John's College High School provides a college-preparatory curriculum designed to prepare students for higher education. As a Catholic institution in the Lasallian tradition, the school integrates religious education and formation into the overall educational experience, combining academic coursework with opportunities for spiritual growth, community service, and leadership development.

The Lasallian approach, named for 17th-century French priest and educational reformer St. John Baptist de La Salle, emphasizes practical, innovative teaching methods and a commitment to educating students from all backgrounds. This tradition values the relationship between teachers and students and sees education as a path to transformation and service.

Because St. John's is a private school, admission is determined by the school's own admissions office rather than through a citywide lottery. Prospective families should reach out directly to learn about application timelines, entrance requirements, shadow day opportunities, and what the school looks for in applicants. Most independent and parochial high schools in DC have competitive admissions processes and look for students who will thrive in their particular community and environment.

As with any high school decision, parents should consider how well a school's mission, culture, and approach align with their student's needs and their family's values.

Visiting and Contact

St. John's College High School is located at 2607 Military Road NW in Washington, DC. Families interested in learning more about the school, arranging a visit, or beginning the admissions process should visit the school's website at https://www.stjohnschs.org or call (202) 363-2316 for current information about tours and applications.