DCPS Out-of-Boundary Application Deadline Approaches

Earlier this week DCist readers commented on how they decide where to send their kids to school, so it seems appropriate to point out that next Wednesday, March 12 is the deadline for parents to apply for the District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) Out-of-Boundary program.

Every year, each school projects how many seats will be available for students who live outside the neighborhood boundary. Parents can view current projections and apply online. With limited out-of boundary space, all submissions will be entered into a lottery on March 14, and families will be randomly selected to choose their desired school locations.

Even though DCPS is trying to avoid paper applications this year for efficiency and environmental reasons, they are also admirably working to ensure that those without English proficiency or internet access can participate. Hard copies of the application can be obtained in multiple languages at all D.C. Public School locations, the DCPS Office of Student Services, and the Office of Bilingual Educations and Language Access, as well as the Office on Latino Affairs, Office on African Affairs, and the Office on Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs. Parents can also apply by:

• Mailing or walking in applications to the Office of Student Services, located at 825 North Capitol St. NE 20002; 8th Floor.
• Calling any of the city offices listed above to process applications over the phone.
• Completing the online application at the Garrison Elementary computer lab located at 1200 S St. NW 20009.

After each submission, whether electronic or non-electronic, a tracking number will be issued to families to ensure every application is received and accounted for. However, as City Desk pointed out last week, we hope the application process will prove more error free than the application itself, which appears to have a typo or two…