Achievement in Action

Student Success

Washington Leadership Academy prepares students to succeed on local and national benchmarks and the students are just as excited by the results as we are!

WLA’s academic model is comprised of the most rigorous and enriching programs from the top high schools across the country. WLA students will graduate with the preparation necessary to succeed in the finest colleges and universities and in lives of public leadership.

Making an Impact

The real world skills students need to succeed in today’s world are being met by the required computer science course at Washington Leadership Academy: In one school year, we more than doubled the number of black students who took the AP Computer Science Principles exam in Washington, DC.

What Makes WLA Special

Leadership Instruction & Internships

All students will receive instruction in essential leadership skills as well as engage in an internship in the D.C. community.

Our curriculum prepares students for the way the world will be, so that our students are prepared to be our leaders in the future.

Technology Curriculum & Project Development

All students learn computer science and development basics so that they become creators of technology rather than consumers. 

Curriculum

WLA students will take college preparatory courses in all core subjects plus Computer Science + Technology and Leadership. Students will also be able to select from a range of electives every year including Robotics, Advanced Coding, DJ Basics, and Photography, among many others.

Computer Science & Technology

Students will learn the foundations of CS, take an AP CS course, and then follow different tech content paths based on their interests.

Leadership

Students will study and practice goal-setting, community engagement, self-advocacy, entrepreneurship, public speaking, and so much more.

Civics

Students will begin with pre-AP World History and then progress through a rigorous sequence of courses including several AP offerings.

English Language Arts

WLA utilizes the Odell Education curriculum based on the Common Core State Standards, culminating in AP courses.

Mathematics

WLA utilizes the EngageNY curriculum based on the Common Core State Standards, culminating in AP courses.

Science

Students will study integrated science during the first two years, culminating in a selection of AP courses.

The WLA Curriculum Combines National Best Practices

For three years, the WLA team traveled to over 40 schools across the country to gather ideas and best practices. The result is a curriculum that combines rigorous content with project-based learning opportunities with real world experiences for students.

 

Learn more about our open source resources and materials here. 

Highlights for Students

Computers for Each Student

All students receive a laptop computer that they will use every day at school.

Full College Prep Program

Students will receive high-quality college preparation and counseling all four years.

Top Faculty Talent

The WLA staff consists of some of the most talented leaders and teachers anywhere across the country.

Convenient Location

WLA is located at the heart of the historic neighborhood of Brookland in Northeast D.C., 10 minutes away from the Brookland/Catholic University Metro Station.

Internships

All students will gain resumé-building, real-world experience through a comprehensive 11th-grade internship.

Houses

All students will be assigned a "House" upon entry into WLA. This Harry-Potter inspired tradition builds relationships and healthy competition throughout the WLA experience!

“In the coming years, we should offer every student the hands-on computer science classes that make them job-ready on day one.”

— President Barack Obama, 2016 State of the Union