Independent. Progressive. College Prep. Grades 6-12.Founded in 1968.
our mission: Burke consciously brings together students who are different from one another in many ways, actively engages them in their own education, holds them to high expectations, gives them power and responsibility, and supports and advances their growth as skilled and independent thinkers who step forward to make positive contributions to the world in which they live.
Cheers to Kamilah S. (Director of Civic Engagement) and Addie H. (HS Science), who represented Burke at the 21st Annual Independent Schools Experiential Education Network (ISEEN) Winter Institute in Baltimore. Bringing together 100 educators from around the world, the winter institute centers on those working within their school's experiential programs, including "outdoor education, global education, community engagement, student leadership, and sustainability programs." They even met First Lady of Maryland, Dawn Moore!
A small snippet of field trips and travel from January 2026.
Close Up on Leadership "From January 27-30, Zora P. '27, Noa F. '27, Payton A. '27, Leyu F. '28, and Curtis (HS History) attended the NAIS Close Up Student Civic Leadership Summit in Arlington. At the conference, the Burke cohort networked with other students from around the United States and built knowledge, developed strategies, and honed leadership skills to make a positive impact in their community. At the end of the conference, the cohort presented a proposal to implement an improved peer-to-peer tutoring program at Burke. We are excited to see the action plan come to fruition!" – Kamilah (Director of Civic Engagement)
At Burke, our goal is for students to continually explore – be that in 6th, 9th, or 12th grade. Whether you are brand-new or well-versed in a discipline, Burke will be your space to grow.
How do we make that possible?
1. "No Cut" Policy: this doesn't mean we eschew auditions and tryouts, and it doesn't mean we guarantee equal playing time. But it means that any student who wants to try soccer, acting, swim, or costume design (and more) will have a place in those programs.
2. The Burke Schedule: we build arts, clubs, and leadership into the school day, which both affirms their significant value and lessens the constraints on after school hours.
Our identity as an urban school in DC provides inspiration and opportunity to engage students in experiential education. While field trips are a crucial ingredient, the recipe for experiential learning goes beyond that. This approach calls students to learn by doing and then by reflecting on what they've done.