Whittier Elementary School

At a Glance

Whittier Elementary School is a public elementary school located at 6201 5th Street NW in the Brightwood neighborhood of Ward 4. The school serves students from pre-kindergarten (age 3) through fifth grade, providing early childhood education through upper elementary in one continuous setting. Whittier has distinguished itself through a strong focus on urban sustainability and STEM education, partnering with organizations that bring hands-on learning experiences directly into the classroom. The school's approach emphasizes rigorous instruction combined with active learning strategies and authentic assessments that prepare students for an increasingly technology-driven world.

What Parents Should Know

Whittier Elementary enrolls students through the My School DC lottery system, the centralized application process used by all DC Public Schools and participating charter schools. Families can list Whittier as a choice during the annual lottery period, with in-boundary students receiving preference for admission. The school's grade configuration spans eight years, from pre-K3 through fifth grade, which means families can potentially keep their children in one school community for their entire early education before transitioning to middle school. This extended elementary structure allows younger students to benefit from being part of a larger school community while still receiving age-appropriate programming.

The Brightwood location in Ward 4 places Whittier in a well-established residential neighborhood with access to both the Georgia Avenue and 16th Street corridors. Parents should note that Whittier has received recognition from the U.S. Department of Education, reflecting achievement in its educational programming. The school's urban sustainability focus isn't just a theme—it's integrated into daily learning through partnerships with Fresh Farm Food Prints, Project Lead The Way, and OutTeach, organizations that bring gardening, STEM curriculum, and outdoor education directly to students.

Programs and Approach

As a DC Public Schools elementary school, Whittier implements instruction that includes differentiated teaching methods to meet students at their individual learning levels. The school's mission centers on providing rigorous, inclusive academic experiences that incorporate active learning strategies and hands-on activities. Technology instruction is woven throughout the curriculum, reflecting Whittier's commitment to preparing students for a world transformed by advancements in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

The school's urban sustainability focus, strengthened in recent years, shapes how students engage with STEM subjects. Through its partnerships, students gain practical experience with concepts that connect classroom learning to real-world applications. Project-based and inquiry-based learning approaches encourage students to ask questions, investigate solutions, and develop critical thinking skills. The emphasis on authentic assessments means students demonstrate their learning through meaningful projects and activities rather than solely through traditional testing.

Whittier's commitment to bias-free instruction in STEM subjects aims to ensure all students see themselves as capable scientists, engineers, and mathematicians. The school works to provide academic inquiries that promote greater understanding and position students as both self-explorers and community contributors. This approach recognizes that elementary school is a critical time for developing students' confidence and interest in STEM fields.

Parents considering Whittier should research current enrollment priorities and deadlines through the My School DC website, as lottery timelines and policies can vary by year. Tours and information sessions, when available, provide the best opportunity to see the school's sustainability and STEM programming in action.

Visiting and Contact

Whittier Elementary School is located at 6201 5th Street NW in the Brightwood neighborhood. Families interested in learning more about the school, scheduling a visit, or accessing current enrollment information should visit the school's website at http://www.whittierdc.org/ or call 202-576-6156.