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.
Marylisa writes, "In Advanced Topics in Spanish we honored the memory of the 30,000 individuals of all ages who were disappeared during the 1976 Argentine military dictatorship. To mark the 50th anniversary of this period, we explored its emotional impact through music, short films, and historical analysis, emphasizing the importance of learning from the past to prevent its repetition. Using a historical database, we researched the names of the disappeared, learned their stories, and wrote dedications on pañuelos blancos (the iconic white scarves worn by the Mothers of the Plaza de Mayo) to help ensure their legacy is not forgotten." Be sure to read them on the 3rd floor of Calvin.
Going into the post-season, the Bengals were seeded #7 in the Potomac Valley Athletic Conference (PVAC) and took on rival Field (#2) in the conference quarterfinals on Monday, May 4 – and pulled off a shocking upset, advancing to the semifinals on May 7.
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.