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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.
Incorporating technology into our curriculum is essential both for keeping students engaged and for teaching 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 teachers meet regularly to discuss creative ways to incorporate tablets into the learning environment. Learn more here.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Academic Distinction: Class of 2022
Congratulations to the students who received Academic Distinction in one or more departments.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.