Academics
Curriculum
Progressive | Challenging | Project-Based
At Burke, you'll learn through challenging college prep academics – our progressive pedagogy values your individuality and places you at the center of your education.
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6th Grade Science
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9th Grade Computer Science
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10th Grade Modern World Literature
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9th-10th Grade Instrumental Music
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12th Grade - Adv. Art History
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11th Grade - AP Chemistry
YOU'LL LEARN FROM:
- Thoughtful Debate
- Rigorous Courses
- Spirited Collaboration
- Faculty who Prioritize Critical Thinking
- Visits to Museums, Parks, and Embassies
- Hands-On, Multi-Disciplinary Projects
Most importantly, you'll learn from your peers ... because your interests, background, and experience contribute to everyone's education.
High School Departments & Courses
Middle School Program
List of 6 items.
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1:1 iPad Program
Incorporating technology into our curriculum is essential to keep students engaged and to teach them how to navigate a world full of screens. We are committed to applying the latest research into how students learn and what helps them to succeed.
In our iPad program, each student has a tablet to use during the school day (and to bring home in High School) and teachers meet regularly to discuss creative ways to incorporate tablets into the learning environment.
> More about iPad use in Middle School -
Independent Study
In the High School, the Independent Study option enables students to pursue interests and explore personal passions, with support from a faculty member. In recent years, students have delved into Chinese and Japanese language, American Sign Language, Advanced Drawing & Painting and 2-D art, computer science and web applications, and music theory. -
Learning Support
Our Learning Support Department assists students in meeting the demands of Burke's challenging academic program. Full-time learning specialists provide support with organization, note and test-taking strategy, and self-advocacy. Learn more. -
Senior Projects
The Senior Project gives students an opportunity to pursue interests and passions beyond the classroom and allows them to contribute to communities and workplaces outside of Burke. Students work with their families, faculty and staff, and advisor to find and develop a meaningful internship or project that takes place during mid to late May of their senior spring. Learn more here. -
Social Change
Every year, Burke students experience a year-long, integrated civics, equity, and leadership curriculum, grounded in social justice pedagogy. We draw inspiration from our founders' vision: a learning environment in which students become active and socially responsible citizen-leaders, committed to advancing social justice in their communities. Download more information. -
Teaching Assistants
High School students who are capable of independent work in a subject can also serve as Teaching Assistants at Burke: assisting the teacher, working with students during in-class exercises, or teaching short lessons. Other responsibilities might include peer tutoring or helping to organize field trips.
Field Trips in 2022-23
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Out and About in DC: Part 2
Last school year, our students could once again travel and explore our region's resources – and those excursions have continued to proliferate in 2022-23:Read More -
Combustion Engine Grants: Part 1
Each summer, the Professional Development Committee awards Combustion Engine Grants, which enable our faculty to enrich teaching and curricula in innovative ways.Read More
On January 9, 2023, Morgan G. (Science) and Matison H. D. '14 (English) presented on their funded projects from Summer 2022. -
Build Your Own Computer
In the Winter trimester, 9th-11th graders in the Build Your Own Computer elective are discovering the ins-and-outs of computers from a physical perspective.Read More -
6th Grade Rock Stars
Read MoreEarlier this month, 6th grade scientists began their geology unit with a rock-seeking excursion in the shallow waters of Rock Creek, west of Connecticut Avenue. After discussing the formation of the landscape, students found a comfy spot for a read-aloud of Byrd Baylor’s Everybody Needs a Rock. -
In The Aisles of IKEA
Read MoreFor the first time since 2019, the 7th graders took to the aisles of IKEA (with a stop at the restaurant for meatballs) for their Tiny House projects. -
Math News Squared
Jenn C. reports that seventeen students (pictured) in Grades 9-12 competed in the national American Mathematics Competition (AMC). A 75-minute, 25-question exam, the AMC is designed to challenge students, strengthen creative problem-solving skills, and foster a love of mathematics. Congratulations to Burke's top AMC12 participant Dante L '24 and top AMC10 participant Hana Y. '25.Read More -
Biology and Psychology Present
Read MoreAt the conclusion of the Fall Trimester, the Advanced Research in Molecular Biology, Social Psychology, and Advanced Psychology electives presented their work to family and peers – with biology students discussing their research posters in the Commons and psychology students offering a listening party for their newly-recorded podcasts. -
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Academic Distinction: Class of 2022
Congratulations to the students who received Academic Distinction in one or more departments.Read More -
Fair for Languages Against Gun Violence
On Wednesday, June 1, students and faculty from the World Languages Department mounted a Fair to celebrate French and Spanish-speaking countries through games, presentations, and food – and to raise funds to support anti-gun violence measures.Read More
Students gave lessons in merengue, painted patterns from zapotec rugs, served cuisine marocaine, wove bahía bands, and presented on Aztec numbers and Mayan glyphs – as well as spoke passionately about reducing gun violence here in the District and sold 1,375 carnations to support their cause. -
Class Snapshot: Creative Chemistry
Morgan G. (Science) reports that 10th graders in Conceptual Chemistry have been hard at work in the lab, creating:Read More -
Hearts & Minds & Hands
A tactile, multi-sensory approach to science and health education extends across grade levels.Read More -
Class & Club Snapshots
Whether in the science lab or around the city, teachers take a hands-on approach – which can both "stimulate growth on both sides of the brain" and increase self-motivation.Read More -
Independent Study Spotlight: Computer Science
In the High School, eligible students may undertake an Independent Project in Computer Science, overseen by a faculty member and extending from one to three trimesters.Read More -
Back on the Road
Thanks to Burke's proximity to the Metro, trips to DC's numerous museums, historical sites, and natural resources are woven into the curriculum.Read More -
Placing Words & Sculpting Ideas
While learning to understand and interpret literature in 6th Grade Core, students also explore the etymology, style, and power of words.Read More -
On Our Soapboxes
Earlier this month, the 10th grade participated in their first Leadership & Civic Engagement Retreat, centered on "Project Soapbox," a public speaking program that invites young people to speak on issues that affect them and their communities.Read More -
Senior Projects in Spring 2021
In a typical year, seniors projects are two-week internships or independent studies, often completed at local organizations and nonprofits. While most on-site projects were not in the cards this year (and the timeline was a bit shorter), the Class of 2021 showed an amazing array of creative, hands-on work:Read More
Co-ed, progressive, college prep school in Washington, DC featuring a challenging curriculum in an inclusive environment for grades 6-12.