Admission Process FAQ’s

DC Bilingual Public Charter School (DC Bilingual) is a public charter school open to all students who reside in the District of Columbia. DC Bilingual’s mission is to implement an academically demanding and age appropriate dual language program designed to foster bilingualism and biliteracy and promote the development of the “whole” child. DC Bilingual implements a dual language (Spanish and English) program that will enable students to meet high academic expectations and develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills and a joy of learning. DC Bilingual is managed by and currently housed at CentroNía (1420 Columbia Rd, NW), a long standing community organization. As the school expands, it is exploring space in an additional ocation in the Columbia Heights/Petworth neighborhoods.

DC Bilingual currently enrolls 200 students in early Pre-K (3 year olds) through second, grade. For the 2007-2008 school year, DC Bilingual will expand to include third grade. The school will add a grade each year through 5th grade in 2009. School hours for all students are 8:30am to 3:30pm. A before and after school program, which is run by CentroNía and becomes all-day during school vacations and summer, is available from 7:00am to 8:30am and 3:30 to 6:00pm for a sliding scale fee.

What is a charter school?
A charter school is an independently-operated public school which is open to all DC residents. Charter schools are public schools of choice which means that families must actively choose to send their children to them. Charter schools receive public funds based up on the number of student who attend the school. Charter schools are accountable for the academic results/learning and well-being of all students enrolled.

How can I find out more about DC Bilingual PCS?
To find out more about DC Bilingual PCS and the application process, come to an upcoming Information Session. Information Sessions will be held at CentroNía (1420 Columbia Rd, NW) on:
• January 17, 2007 at 9:30am
• February 1, 2007 at 5:30pm
• February 22, 2007 at 9:30am

More sessions will be organized as needed. At these sessions, you will learn about DC Bilingual’s mission and design. There will also be an opportunity to ask questions and tour the school.

You can also visit our website for more information (www.dcbilingualorg) or stop by the CentroNía Admissions or DC Bilingual Charter Offices for a pamphlet and an application.

Who can apply?
Anyone who is a resident of the District of Columbia (see proof of residency question) may apply for admission for their child/ren. DC Bilingual is accepting children for early Pre-K (children who will be 3 by September 30, 2007) through third grade.

Who should apply?
Anyone who is interested in seeking a child-centered, bilingual education for their child/ren in a setting which embraces diversity and supports individuals and families should consider applying to DC Bilingual.

How do I apply?
To apply, you must complete the application which is available at CentroNía and DC Bilingual and on our website (www.dcbilingual.org). In addition, you must provide proof of DC residency and a copy of the applicant’s birth certificate. All paperwork must be submitted to the Charter Office. Only complete applications will be considered in the lottery.

What do I need to show proof of DC residency?
At the time you submit your application, you must also provide proof of DC Residency. Documents you may use for proof of residency include a pay stub, proof of financial assistance from the DC Government, DC driver’s license, DC motor vehicle registration, unexpired lease or rental agreement, or a utility bill (gas, electric or water). The document you provide must include your current DC home address.

Please note that you will be required to submit proof of residency again at the time you complete your child’s enrollment paperwork in the summer.

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