What is a Charter School?
Charter schools are independently-operated public schools that are open to all District residents, regardless of their neighborhood, socioeconomic status, academic achievement, or ethnicity. There are no admission tests or tuition fees. Parents and students choose to attend a particular charter school because of its unique focus, curriculum, structure, size, environment and other features that meet the needs of those students.
What makes The Arts & Technology Academy different from other charter schools?
ATA has designed a program to meet students' needs and to exceed their parents' dreams. The curricular mixture of academics, technology and the arts seeks to "propel" students beyond their economically depressed community. The arts form the foundation for building students' academic prowess as well as a way to connect students to the great artists and leaders who were nurtured within their community. The arts program includes theatre and dance study, photography, music appreciation, offering extensive access to both instrumental and vocal music, as well as film production and the role of technology within the arts industry.
To meet its high expectations, ATA runs an extended, seven-and-a half-hour school day and an extended school year. The basics, reading and math, are taught through the scripted approach of direct instruction. Conversely, a multicultural social studies curriculum invites students to explore the history of ideas while Spanish language classes acclimates each student to another culture. Current technology is integrated into various aspects of the academic program in an effort to close the technological divide to which these students are subject. All students have access to after-school tutoring and homework assistance. By design, the school program reflects the strengths of their heritage and creates many ways for students to express themselves and to excel.
When was The Arts and Technology Academy founded?
The school was chartered in 1998, and opened its doors to students in October 1999. When the former Richardson Elementary School (DCPS) was closed due to low enrollment, parents and community members wanted a school that excited their children to learn through innovative teaching.
What grade levels are taught at The Arts and Technology Academy (ATA)?
ATA provides an academically challenging, technologically and artistically rich curriculum to grades Pre-K3 through 5h.
How do I enroll my child(ren) at The Arts and Technology Academy?
You may visit the main office Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00a.m. and 4:30p.m. to fill out an application. Please remember to bring the child’s original birth certificate and social security card, as well as a government-issued photo identification card of yourself (i.e. license, passport, etc.).
Does ATA require students to wear uniforms?
Yes, the school uniform consists of a burgundy, collared polo shirt and khaki/beige pants, as well as black shoes or sneakers. ATA polo shirts and sweaters may be purchased directly through the school (short-sleeved @ $10, long-sleeved @ $15, sweaters @ $25).
How can I become involved with the Parent-Teacher Organization?
You may complete the PTO Membership Application and email it to jbutler@dcpcsa.org or mail it directly to the school (ATTN: Jenaine Butler, PTO). For further information, please contact the PTO President, Jenaine Butler.
How can I become a part of the ATA team of dedicated teachers and staff?
Highly qualified teacher candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree and/or Master’s Degree, preferably in the concentrated field, and must possess a passing score on Praxis 10014. Candidates must have a desire to promote healthy learning environments while utilizing creative learning techniques to promote success and excellence among students. In addition, candidates must possess the ability to communicate with people on all levels diplomatically.
Highly qualified administrative staff candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree and/or significant relevant experience and training. Candidates must have excellent communication skills and maturity, wisdom and commitment to the highest standards of ethical and professional conduct. In addition, will support the development and implementation of plans designed to augment the vision of the Governing Board and the mission of the School.
ALL candidates may submit cover letter and resume to mjones@dcata.org or fax to (202) 398-7146.
What are ATA’s hours of operation?
Students who are enrolled in Before Care (PAWS) may arrive between the hours of 7:00a.m. and 7:45a.m.
Breakfast is served between 7:15a.m. and 7:45a.m.
Students are engaged in instruction from 8:00a.m. to 3:30p.m.
Students are dismissed is at 3:30p.m.
Students who are enrolled in After Care (PAWS) are engaged in after-school activities between the hours of 3:30p.m. and 6:00p.m.
How can I donate to ATA?
There are many ways that you can make a monetary donation, give a gift, or offer a service. If you would like to donate a specific service or a gift (like a set of books or a computer) to the school, please contact Marva McClure, Interim Head of School at mmcclure@dcata.org or 202.398.6811. Please visit our website donation page to submit monetary donations or you may also send a check directly to the school:
The Arts and Technology Academy
ATTN: Marva McClure, Interim Head of School
5300 Blaine Street, NE
Washington, DC 20019
Please remember, you also have an option to simply write “donation” or "donation to support field trips" (for example) in the memo line of the check.
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