Stanton Elementary School

At a Glance

Stanton Elementary School is a public DCPS school serving students in grades PK3 through 5 in the Anacostia neighborhood of Ward 8. Located at 2701 Naylor Road SE, Stanton provides early childhood education through elementary school, with a mission centered on creating equity and excellence for all students through a nurturing, high-quality learning environment.

The school's vision emphasizes becoming an inclusive and supportive community that prepares students to be productive citizens in a global society. Stanton offers Early Action guaranteed seats for both PK3 and PK4, making it an accessible option for families seeking early childhood education in Southeast DC. The school requires uniforms and does not require a lottery for neighborhood families.

What Parents Should Know

As a neighborhood DCPS school, Stanton Elementary automatically admits students who live within its boundary area without requiring participation in the My School DC lottery. Families residing in the school's catchment zone have guaranteed enrollment, which can provide peace of mind for parents planning their children's educational path from preschool through fifth grade.

The PK3–5 grade configuration means families can keep their children at Stanton for up to three years of early childhood education plus six years of elementary school. After fifth grade, students will transition to a middle school, so parents should plan ahead for that move around fourth or fifth grade. This extended elementary experience allows younger siblings to potentially overlap with older ones, which many families find convenient for drop-off and pick-up logistics.

Stanton offers Early Action guaranteed enrollment for both PK3 and PK4, a significant benefit for working families who need consistent early childhood care and education. This guarantee means eligible families can secure a spot without competing in the citywide lottery, though they must meet the application timeline and requirements.

The school focuses on STEM education and implements a Restorative Justice Program, indicating a dual commitment to rigorous academics and positive school culture. Parents should be aware that uniforms are required, which can help with morning routines and reduce clothing costs, though it does require upfront investment in school-appropriate attire.

Programs and Approach

Stanton Elementary implements a STEM-focused curriculum, emphasizing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics as core components of student learning. This approach prepares students for an increasingly technology-driven world while building critical thinking and problem-solving skills from an early age.

The school's Restorative Justice Program represents a commitment to addressing student behavior and conflict through dialogue, accountability, and community-building rather than purely punitive measures. This approach aims to create a more supportive school climate where students learn to take responsibility for their actions and repair harm when it occurs.

As a DCPS school, Stanton follows the district's academic standards and calendar. Families new to DC or those living outside the boundary who wish to enroll must participate in the My School DC lottery system, which opens each fall for the following school year. The lottery application allows families to rank their school preferences, and assignments are made based on a combination of preference, sibling priority, and random selection.

The school's mission speaks to systemic change and achieving excellence and equity for all students, suggesting a commitment to addressing opportunity gaps and ensuring every child receives the support they need to succeed. The emphasis on providing tools and setting standards for productive citizenship indicates a whole-child approach that extends beyond academics to character development and community engagement.

Visiting and Contact

Stanton Elementary School is located at 2701 Naylor Road SE in the Anacostia neighborhood of Southeast DC. Families interested in learning more about the school, scheduling a tour, or accessing current enrollment information should visit the school's profile at https://profiles.dcps.dc.gov/Stanton+Elementary+School or call 202-671-6180 to speak with the main office.