There are many choices for public schools in Washington D.C. Since this city is the nation's most prominent political city, there are quite a few high schools and magnet schools that have a political influence.

Not all magnet schools promote political science - there are many others that promote arts, math, science and a wide array of other specialty areas. Most of these, like the Duke Ellington School of the Arts and Mickinley Technology Senior High Schools, are limited to grades 9-12, but some, like Brent Elementary in Captiol Hill, are notable exceptions.  Parents who have kids who express a desire to enter a specific field should consider one of the magnet schools that best matches their area of interest.

Grade schools are plentiful in Washington D.C., with a public school in each district. The district sizes are about average. However, some areas are more over-populated than others, which results in a larger class size in some areas. Parents who are planning to relocate to Washington D.C. should research each public school before moving.  The three highest rated grade schools in D.C. are Eaton Elementary and Janney Elementary, both in North D.C., as well as Hyde-Addison Elementary in Georgetown.

Many of the areas have a similar cost of living, so families with children who will be attending one of the grade schools have quite a few choices. The public schools in Washington D.C., despite larger average class sizes, have respectable rankings. Schools that have similar student to teacher ratios often have lower rankings. There are quite a few progressive educational programs in place in the public schools in Washington D.C. The charter schools in the city have average nutritional programs and exercise plans. Some charter schools have better programs than others. Meridian Public Charter School in Adams Morgan is a great choice for parents of kindergarten through 8th graders.  With an 11:1 student to teacher ratio, it's one of the most notable and progressive schools in the area.

Parents who prefer an alternative method of education for their children will benefit from researching the many Montessori schools in Washington D.C. While typically limited to the elementary school level, this method gives students a more individual way to learn. The Montessori schools vary in class size throughout the city. As a general rule, the higher the class size, the lower the price will be. The opposite is also true. Students in these schools usually receive higher rankings in tasks involving critical thought and creativity.  Top Montessori schools in D.C. include Aiden Montessori School, Franklin Montessori School, and Georgetown Montessori.

Take stock of your child's educational needs, do your research, and find a great school in Washington D.C. today!