School Innovation

We are not afraid to try new things. After all, innovation is one of the American principles that makes our country great. Likewise, we believe that fostering that same entrepreneurial spirit in our school system will help us become the best urban school district in the country.

By developing and supporting innovative school models, we can build a diverse portfolio of schools that offers families meaningful school options. As a result, students will have the option to pursue their education in environments that excite them, which will naturally lead to higher achievement and a love of learning.

For example, if your child is a third grade student in Ward 8 who loves math, we think she should have the opportunity to attend a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) elementary school near her home. Similarly, we would like sixth grade students who are passionate about music and art to attend an Arts Integration middle school that specializes in using fine arts to teach social studies and science.

We are rapidly reinventing this school system to ensure that all children, no matter their test scores or the ward in which they live, have access to innovative schools that meet their unique needs. 

The Office of School Innovation is leading this effort and is currently focused on developing and implementing the school models listed below.

With the help of families and educators, we are truly moving from a school system to a system of great schools.

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Office of School Innovation

• Schoolwide Applications Model (SAM)
• Full Service Schools (FSS)
• DC Catalyst Project
• Autonomous Schools
• Partnership Schools
• DC Collaborative for Change (DC3)
• International Baccalaureate (IB)
• Capital Gains
• TEAM (Together Everyone Achieves More)