Van Ness Elementary School
publicWard 8Near Southeast · Grades PK3–5
About Van Ness Elementary School
Van Ness Elementary School fosters an inclusive community where children, families, and educators collaborate to provide authentic experiences and engage the whole child. The school offers a robust curriculum through specific programs like Arts Integration, which merges arts with core subjects, Blended Learning, combining traditional and digital methods, and Online Learning, providing flexible educational approaches. Students extend their learning beyond the classroom with enriching opportunities such as the creative Maker Space, athletic and literacy program DC Scores, empowering Girls on the Run, and STEM-focused Project Lead the Way. The school day runs from 8:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., and uniforms are not required, allowing students individual expression. Families living in-boundary with a sibling currently attending or offered a spot receive lottery priority, making it a strong choice for local families.
“Children, families, and educators come together at Van Ness to create an inclusive community that provides authentic experiences and engages the whole child. Our aim is to cultivate critical thinkers and develop a generation of confident, curious, and compassionate members of society.”
Specialized Programs
Enrichment
Maker Space · DC Scores · Girls on the Run · Project Lead the Way · Yoga instruction · Art Therapy
Address
1150 5TH STREET SE
Enrollment Lottery
Required
Free transit for students
All DC residents enrolled at Van Ness Elementary School (ages 5–21) qualify for Kids Ride Free — a SmarTrip card that grants free Metrobus, Metrorail, and DC Circulator rides on school days.
School Hours
From Google business listing — confirm with the school directly.
- Monday8:30 AM to 4 PM
- Tuesday8:30 AM to 4 PM
- Wednesday8:30 AM to 4 PM
- Thursday8:30 AM to 4 PM
- Friday8:30 AM to 4 PM
- SaturdayClosed
- SundayClosed
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What grades does Van Ness Elementary School serve?+
Van Ness Elementary School serves grades PK3–5 in the Near Southeast neighborhood of Washington DC.
What ward is Van Ness Elementary School in?+
Van Ness Elementary School is located in Ward 8, Near Southeast, Washington DC.
How do I apply to Van Ness Elementary School?+
Van Ness Elementary School is DCPS (DC Public Schools) that requires a lottery application. Applications are submitted through MySchoolDC (myschooldc.org), which opens each November and closes in early February. Results are released in late March.
Is Van Ness Elementary School tuition-free?+
Yes. As a DC public school, Van Ness Elementary School is tuition-free and open to all DC residents regardless of ward or neighborhood.
More schools in Ward 8
- charter
Friendship PCS - Southeast Elementary Academy
Anacostia · Grades PK3–3
- parochial
Bishop John T. Walker School for Boys
Grades PK-8
- public
Hendley Elementary School
Washington Highlands · Grades PK3–5
- charter
Thurgood Marshall Academy PCS
Hillsdale · Grades 9–12