Quick summary of key school information
School details
| Native English, French, and Spanish speaking teachers |
Yes |
| Language support for students not fluent in English, French, and Spanish |
Support For Students Acquiring English (ELL) |
| Additional language classes offered by the school |
French, Spanish |
| Max. number of students per class |
Class size can vary from 18-25 students per class depending on the grade level and campus. |
| Use of technology in the classroom |
Technology use is limited, especially in the younger grades. All assessments take place online, and as students develop independent research skills, they may use devices in their Units of Inquiry. |
| Do teachers assign homework to their students? |
Stokes School does not place a heavy emphasis on homework. Teachers may send math materials home to reinforce the day’s lessons or extend practice. Students are always encouraged to read independently, and in upper grades may be asked to write a reflection on their reading. |
| Dedicated staff/programs for students with special learning needs |
Special Education Program |
| Learning support offered |
Students who are eligible for special education services receive an individual education program (IEP) that identifies their goals and objectives for the year. Approximately thirteen percent of Stokes School students have IEPs. Depending on students’ needs, special education services are rendered by our learning specialists and related service providers. Most services are provided in an inclusion setting. |
| Supervised care before/after school |
Stokes School offers before-school care beginning at 7:30am and an in-house after school program that is open to all scholars. |
| School provided lunches |
Yes |
| Food alternatives for special dietary needs (ie. vegan, kosher, halal etc) |
Stoker' kitchen can cater to many special diets related to allergies, religious observance, or other dietary needs. |
| Uniform required |
No |
| Extracurricular activities or clubs offered |
Scouts, girls on the run, boys club, steel drum, photography, academic support, tennis. |
| Sports activities included |
Students in grades K-5 have 30 minutes of recess every day, and 40 minutes of PE on Mondays-Thursdays. In Pre-K, students have multiple times for outdoor free-play throughout the day. |
| Qualities and characteristics best defining the school |
The Elsie Whitlow Stokes Community Freedom Public Charter School prepares culturally diverse elementary school students in the District of Columbia to be leaders, scholars and responsible citizens who are committed to social justice. Stokes teaches children to think, speak, read, write and learn in two languages: English and French or English and Spanish. With a dual focus on academic excellence and community service, the Stokes School accomplishes its mission by creating an environment of achievement, respect and non-violence. |
| Teaching approach of the school |
Scholars in kindergarten and above spend approximately 50% of their time in English and 50% of their time in the target language (French or Spanish). |