About SWS

School Within School (SWS) is a public, Reggio Emilia–inspired elementary school serving grades PK3 through 5th at 920 F Street NE in Washington, DC.

As one of DC’s few citywide public elementary schools, SWS welcomes more than 320 students from every ward in the District, creating a vibrant learning community that reflects the full diversity and brilliance of our city.

SWS’s mission is to support and develop each child’s potential through a uniquely child-centered and teacher-directed learning environment inspired by the schools of Reggio Emilia, Italy. At the heart of this philosophy is a simple guiding belief:

“Nothing without joy.”

At SWS, joy infuses learning. Through project-based exploration, collaboration, creativity, and reflection, students are encouraged to ask questions, pursue curiosity, and shape the direction of their own learning.