Washington Latin PCS - 2nd Street Middle School

At a Glance

Washington Latin PCS - 2nd Street Middle School is a public charter school serving grades 5–8 in the Brightwood Park neighborhood of Ward 4. As part of the Washington Latin network, the school describes itself as a Tier One organization known for top academic results, excellent teaching, a diverse student body, and warm community. The school draws students from all eight wards of Washington, DC, reflecting its mission to make a classical liberal arts education accessible across the city.

The school's approach centers on helping students develop strong habits of mind and character, preparing them to become lifelong learners who can thrive in diverse settings and contribute to the public good. With a focus on classical education within the public charter framework, Washington Latin offers families an alternative educational model within DC's school choice system.

What Parents Should Know

Washington Latin operates on a uniform requirement, which is important for families to factor into their back-to-school planning and budgeting. As a public charter school, admission is handled through the My School DC lottery system rather than by neighborhood boundaries, meaning any DC resident can apply regardless of where they live in the city. The school has historically maintained waitlists, which families should be aware of when planning their school choice strategy and lottery rankings.

The grade configuration spans grades 5–8, covering what's traditionally considered middle school years. This means families will need to plan for a transition after 8th grade to a high school program. For families entering at 5th grade, this offers four years of continuity in one school community. The classical liberal arts mission suggests an approach that may differ from more typical middle school programs, so families should research whether this educational philosophy aligns with their student's learning style and their family's educational values.

The school's location in Brightwood Park puts it in a residential area of upper Northwest DC, accessible via public transportation but potentially requiring a commute for families from other wards. Since the school serves students from across all eight wards, families should consider transportation logistics and commute times when making their school choice decisions.

Programs and Approach

Washington Latin emphasizes a classical liberal arts education within the public charter school model. This approach focuses on developing good habits of mind and character, distinguishing it from schools with other educational philosophies. The school offers arts integration programming, allowing students to engage with content through creative approaches. A STEM focus provides opportunities for students interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

The school maintains a school garden, which can offer hands-on learning experiences and connections to environmental education. Interscholastic sports provide middle schoolers opportunities for athletic competition and team building with other schools. The school also implements a restorative justice program, an approach to school discipline that emphasizes repairing harm and building community rather than purely punitive consequences.

As a public charter school, Washington Latin is tuition-free and open to all DC residents through the My School DC common lottery system. Families interested in the school for the following academic year should submit their applications during the lottery window, typically in late winter. Applications submitted after the deadline are added to the waitlist in the order received. Because the school draws from all eight wards and has maintained waitlists, families should rank schools carefully in their lottery application and consider multiple options.

Visiting and Contact

Washington Latin PCS - 2nd Street Middle School is located at 5200 2nd Street NW in the Brightwood Park neighborhood. Families interested in learning more about the school's classical education approach, touring the facility, or getting current information about enrollment should visit the school's website at https://www.latinpcs.org or call 202-223-1111.