Exploration: The essence of Edmund Burke School (Sponsored)

Burke 12th grade Advanced Art History class at the Phillips Collection’s “Multiplicity” exhibition. (Fall 2024 photo by Maureen Minard)

In the late 1960s, students and educators alike were calling established educational practices into question. Edmund Burke School’s founders determined that an egalitarian, participatory approach would foster a better school environment. When engaged in their own education, students would become more curious and creative. They would want to explore.

Five decades later, active engagement and inquiry remain essential at Burke. Simply, this is a place to be multifaceted. A place to try new things and meet new people. And a place where students are creative, kind, diverse, and perceptive, with a penchant for exploration.

At Burke, experienced musicians can play basketball and longtime softball players can delve into ceramics or acting. Opportunities are vast and varied – and everyone can access the full range of Burke’s offerings. Students don’t have to compete for a spot just to do what makes them happy. They also can pursue serious interests outside school, ranging from high-level gymnastics to chess to filmmaking.

Advanced coursework also enables deep exploration. Once students complete an introductory computer science class, for example, they can branch into robotics, AI, and ethical hacking and launch an independent study. Math enthusiasts can access AP Calculus BC, Multivariable, and Advanced Statistics. Visual artists choose among dozens of electives, ranging from Ceramics to Animation to Advanced Studio Art.

Consisting of several interconnected buildings on Connecticut and Upton, Burke’s campus is home to a library, a theatre, four art studios, five science labs, newly-renovated gym and weight room, plus several outdoor terraces (one of which has a climbing wall) and a range of idiosyncratic study spots.

Moreover, Burke is (relatively) small by design. With 300 students in grades 6-12 and 50 faculty members, people truly get to know one another – and make connections that are deep and lasting. Students also form inter-grade friendships, through classes, extracurriculars, or just casual interactions. Burke doesn’t have isolated homerooms, and common areas are open to all students in the division.

Burke 6th graders on the National Mall (Fall 2024 photo by Emily Zurcher)

Burke’s Van Ness campus is also a starting point for exploration in and around DC. From Science in 6th grade to Advanced Art History in 12th grade, classes can be built around field work in Rock Creek Park or recurring trips to museums and galleries. The city location also enables substantial independence: students can get to school “on their own steam” (be that Metro, bus, or bike) and enjoy an “open campus” starting in 9th grade.

To start exploring at Burke, attend an Open House on Saturday, October 19, 2024. The middle school program begins at 10:30 AM and the high school program begins at 1:30 PM. Family tours during the school day are also available October to January. Learn more at burkeschool.org/visit.