Takoma Elementary School

At a Glance

Takoma Elementary School is a public elementary school serving students in pre-kindergarten (PK3) through fifth grade in Ward 4's Takoma neighborhood. Located on Piney Branch Road NW, the school operates as a community school, partnering with organizations across Washington DC to provide culturally responsive programming for its diverse student body.

The school emphasizes arts-integrated learning, where students engage in rigorous academics through creative expression that culminates in interactive showcases. Takoma Elementary's mission centers on developing confident, happy, healthy, and successful children who graduate with strong academic and social skills prepared for their educational journey ahead.

What Parents Should Know

As a DC Public Schools institution, Takoma Elementary participates in the My School DC lottery system for admissions. Families applying to pre-kindergarten through fifth grade submit a single application during the lottery period, ranking their school preferences. Students living within the school's boundary area receive priority placement, while out-of-boundary families can apply but should understand that acceptance depends on available seats.

The PK3-5 grade configuration means families will experience a transition after fifth grade, when students move on to middle school. This elementary-only structure allows the school to focus specifically on early childhood and elementary-age developmental needs, with programming and facilities designed for younger learners. Parents should plan ahead for middle school applications, which also go through the My School DC system during their child's fifth-grade year.

Takoma Elementary identifies as a community school, which in DC typically means extended hours, wraparound services, and partnerships with community organizations. These partnerships aim to provide comprehensive support beyond traditional academics, addressing the varied needs of families in the school community. The collaborative model brings resources directly to students and families at the school site.

The school's emphasis on arts integration means students can expect creative approaches woven throughout their academic instruction rather than arts being treated as separate subjects. This pedagogical approach culminates in student showcases where children demonstrate their learning through interactive presentations, giving families regular opportunities to see their child's work and academic growth.

Programs and Approach

Takoma Elementary uses an arts-integrated learning model as a core instructional approach. This means students encounter academic content through creative and artistic lenses, making connections between subjects and developing multiple ways of understanding and expressing their knowledge. The school describes its learning environment as rigorous and engaging, with students working toward producing showcases that demonstrate what they've learned in interactive formats.

The school's community school model invites partnerships with organizations from across Washington DC. This approach expands the resources available to students and families beyond what the school staff alone can provide. Community schools typically offer extended programming, family support services, and enrichment opportunities that respond to the specific needs of their population.

Enrollment at Takoma Elementary, like all DC public schools, happens through the My School DC unified lottery system. Families create an account on the My School DC website, complete one application, and rank their school choices in order of preference. The lottery runs annually with specific deadlines, typically in the spring for the following school year. In-boundary students receive the highest preference for admission, followed by other priority categories. Families can check the My School DC website for current lottery timelines, sibling preferences, and other enrollment details.

Visiting and Contact

Takoma Elementary School is located at 7010 Piney Branch Road NW in the Takoma neighborhood of Northwest DC. Families interested in learning more about the school, scheduling a tour, or finding current enrollment information should visit the school's website at https://www.takomaes.org/ or call 202-671-6050.