Alexander R. Shepherd Elementary School

The school’s mission is to develop inquisitive, internationally-minded lifelong learners who feel loved, challenged, and prepared to think globally and act compassionately. It employs a student-centered, inquiry-based approach where student questions guide the learning process. The staff works collaboratively to create a loving environment that prepares students for success in the 21st century.

Shepherd implements the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) for all students aged 3 to 12. The academic curriculum includes core content areas such as Math, English Language Arts (ELA), Social Studies, and STEM. Additionally, all students receive instruction in special subjects, including Art, Library, Physical Education, and foreign language classes in either Spanish or French starting in PreK3.

Shepherd Elementary serves as a feeder school for Alice Deal Middle School, which in turn feeds into Jackson Reed High School. Students are prepared for further academic challenge and growth through an inquiry-based curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking and global citizenship. The school is recognized as one of the most highly regarded elementary schools in the District system.

Shepherd provides comprehensive student support services, including special education and English Language Learner (ELL) support. The school employs a dedicated wellness team consisting of counselors, a school nurse, a social worker, a psychologist, and speech-language pathologists. The school utilizes the Responsive Classroom approach and implements Response to Intervention (RTI) and bullying prevention programs to support social-emotional learning.

Shepherd Elementary is a public school within the District of Columbia Public School System (DCPS) serving students from PreK3 through 5th grade. Families residing within the designated attendance zone of Shepherd Park, Colonial Village, and North Portal Estates are guaranteed enrollment. Out-of-boundary families may apply through the DCPS lottery system. Prospective families are encouraged to attend open houses, which are typically held in the fall and early winter.

The school year follows the DCPS calendar, with traditional events including Back-to-School Night in September, Jazz Night and Black History Month celebrations in February, a Science Fair, Spelling Bee, Geography Bee, Field Day in June, and an annual Halloween parade. Virtual open houses are scheduled throughout the year for prospective families.

Following a $30 million renovation completed in 2016, the campus features modernized classrooms, an airy atrium, and a spacious courtyard. Students have access to a gymnasium and a full cooking kitchen and cafeteria, which are part of an attached Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) facility. The school is also adjacent to a public playground and soccer field maintained by the DPR.

The school offers a variety of enrichment programs and extracurricular activities. Students participate in school-wide traditions such as the Science Fair, Spelling Bee, and Geography Bee. Additionally, the school provides a before- and after-care program known as the Shepherd Elementary School Star Achievers (SESSA).