Choosing the right elementary school is a critical decision for families in the DC area. This article highlights the top 10 rated elementary schools known for their academic excellence, supportive communities and enriching extracurricular programs. Our rankings are based on reliable sources including GreatSchools.org, Niche.com, and local education reports from the DC Public Schools system and surrounding counties. Whether you live in the city or suburbs, this guide will help you find a school that fits your family’s needs.
Key Elementary School
Situated in the Forest Hills neighborhood, Key Elementary School is known for its strong academic performance and diverse student body. The school emphasizes a well-rounded education with a focus on both academics and social-emotional learning. Key Elementary has received high marks for its inclusive environment and dedicated staff.
Address: 5001 Dana Place NW, Washington, DC
Phone: (202) 729-3280
Website: https://keyschooldc.membershiptoolkit.com/
Janney Elementary School
Located in the friendly neighborhood of Cleveland Park, Janney Elementary is known for its rigorous academics and supportive learning environment. The school boasts a strong PTA and offers several after-school programs focused on science, technology and arts. Janney’s commitment to inclusive education makes it a top choice for families seeking diversity and high achievement.
Address: 4130 Albemarle St. NW, Washington, DC
Phone: (202) 282-0110
Website: https://janneyschool.org/
Oyster-Adams Bilingual School
Oyster-Adams is a dual-language immersion school that provides students with a unique opportunity to become bilingual in Spanish and English. Its innovative curriculum and cultural programs prepare students for global citizenship. The school is praised for its academic rigor and family-friendly atmosphere with frequent community events.
Address: 2801 Calvert St. NW, Washington, DC
Phone: (202) 671-6130
Website: https://oysteradamsbilingual.org/
Stoddert Elementary School
Located in the Glover Park neighborhood, Stoddert Elementary School is known for its strong academic performance and active community involvement. The school offers a variety of programs aimed at enhancing student learning and development. Stoddert Elementary has received positive reviews for its dedicated staff and supportive environment.
Address: 4001 Calvert St. NW, Washington, DC
Phone: (202) 671-6030
Website: https://www.stoddert.org/
Lafayette Elementary School
Lafayette Elementary School has a strong reputation for fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment. It emphasizes personalized learning plans and encourages parental involvement. The school’s arts program is particularly robust, providing students with many opportunities to explore music, drama, and visual arts.
Address: 5701 Broad Branch Road NW, Washington, DC
Phone: (202) 282-0116
Website: https://lafayettehsa.org/
Brent Elementary School
Brent Elementary, located on Capitol Hill, is celebrated for its academic success, arts integration and inclusive school culture. The school promotes a strong sense of community and offers an engaging, well-rounded curriculum with robust reading, math and creative programs. Brent also emphasizes social-emotional learning and family involvement, creating a nurturing environment where students thrive both academically and personally.
Address: 301 North Carolina Ave. SE, Washington, DC
Phone: (202) 698-3363
Website: https://www.brentelementary.org/
King Elementary School
King Elementary is recognized for its strong emphasis on social-emotional learning alongside academics. The school provides a variety of programs to support student wellness and engagement. It also benefits from community partnerships that enhance student experiences with field trips and guest speakers.
Address: 3400 Wheeler Road SE, Washington, DC
Phone: (202) 939-4900
Website: https://profiles.dcps.dc.gov/King+Elementary+School
Maury Elementary School
Maury Elementary is a neighborhood school in the northeast quadrant of DC, known for its academic excellence and strong community ties. It consistently ranks highly in district assessments and offers a supportive, student-centered learning environment. With a STEM-focused approach, integrated arts, and a commitment to equity and inclusion, Maury attracts a diverse student body and prepares students for future success.
Address: 1250 Constitution Ave. NE, Washington, DC
Phone: (202) 698-3838
Website: https://www.mauryelementary.com/
Ross Elementary School
Ross Elementary, located in Dupont Circle, is known for its close-knit community, strong academics and dedicated staff. The school uses inquiry-based learning and integrates the arts into the curriculum, encouraging creativity and critical thinking. With small class sizes and strong parent involvement, Ross offers a well-rounded, supportive environment for student growth.
Address: 1730 R St. NW, Washington, DC
Phone: (202) 673-7200
Website: https://rosselementary.org/
Shepherd Elementary School
Shepherd Elementary School is located in the Brightwood neighborhood of Washington, DC. This public school serves grades pre-K through grade five and is recognized for its commitment to academic achievement and a nurturing school culture. Shepherd focuses on fostering a collaborative environment where students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The school offers a variety of programs to support literacy, STEM and the arts, with a dedicated staff that encourages family engagement. Shepherd consistently earns positive reviews from parents and ranks well in district assessments.
Address: 7800 14th St. NW, Washington, DC
Phone: (202) 576-6140
Website: https://shepherd-elementary.org/
Selecting the right elementary school sets the foundation for a child’s educational journey and overall development. The DC area offers a diverse range of top-rated public and private elementary schools, each with unique strengths that cater to different family needs and learning styles. From strong academics and bilingual programs to enriching arts and STEM opportunities, these schools provide safe and nurturing environments where young learners can thrive. By considering factors such as curriculum quality, community involvement and extracurricular offerings, families can find the ideal school to support their child’s growth and success.
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