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Our Approach to Extracurriculars

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.
What clubs and extracurriculars does Burke offer (and when)?

Athletics
  • Burke offers 22 interscholastic teams, plus several club sports, which practice after school
  • Students with significant athletic commitments outside school (hockey, ballet, climbing) can apply for independent study credit
Theater Season
  • Our mainstage season includes several fall plays (grades 9-12), a winter musical (grades 8-12), a spring musical (grades 6-8), and a student one-act evening
  • Rehearsals are held after-school, but count towards the graduation requirement in the arts
Instrumental Music
Vocal Ensembles
  • Burke offers two bands in 7th-8th grade and four levels of band in the high school; our singing opportunities include Chorus 7/8, High School Vocal Ensemble, and two solo vocalist events.
  • These programs are classes and meet during the school day, although some travel in and beyond DC to perform.
Affinity GroupsOur student-led affinity groups meet during the mid-morning community period on alternating Wednesday, enabling students to take part in more than one group at the same time.
Newspaper and YearbookThe Cageliner (student newspaper) meets during lunch, with one after-school "production night" each month; Paw Print (yearbook) meets during the Friday clubs period.
It's Academic!
Student Government
HS Leadership		These three programs all meet on their own schedule and can require a more substantial time commitment, depending on the student's role. They do not generally conflict with arts or athletics though!
Student-Led ClubsAny student can propose and lead a club around a niche interest, and we reserve the Friday community period for club meetings. Some large clubs (Dance Team, Service Club) will include additional meetings.
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Co-ed, progressive, college prep school in Washington, DC featuring a challenging curriculum in an inclusive environment for grades 6-12.
4101 Connecticut Ave NW Washington, DC 20008    |    Phone: 202-362-8882    |    Fax: 202-362-1914