Frequently Asked Questions

What is a charter school?
Charter schools are publicly-funded schools that offer innovative, independently run education programs. They are required to meet the same academic standards as other public schools, are accountable for the outcomes stated in their contract with the chartering authority, and must accept all children for whom they have available space. Charter schools hire their own staff, control their own budget, and design their own curriculum and assessment measures.

Must parents pay tuition?
No, like other public schools, charter schools do not charge tuition.

What is CAPCS' focus?
CAPCS is committed to helping students, their families and the communities realize their full potential. We do this by providing a world-class academic program and a caring, stable base for students and by offering programs and services for parents and the community at each campus. Our highly motivated staff is committed to bringing out the best in each child.

How does CAPCS measure achievement?
CAPCS believes there are many ways to measure achievement. We are making progress toward our goal of having all our students score proficient or above on the annual DC CAS standardized test. We closely monitor the year-to-year scores of individual students as well as class scores to identify areas that need additional focus. Tests and quizzes are one way we measure progress in subject areas. Our Demonstrations of Learning is another. The demonstrations offer a more creative, hands-on way students apply what they have learned. Each class selects a project that requires students to work individually and collectively to produce a product such as a plan for starting a new business or a civic event, a class yearbook, etc.

Does CAPCS have an after-school program?
Yes, each of our campuses offers a creative after-school program that allows children to explore a wide range of activities that expand their horizons and help them develop new skills. Our Kids House program available at all our campuses offers homework assistance and tutoring as well as fun activities from the Kids Kit curriculum that build upon classroom learning. The middle school after-school program features both activity groups and intramural sports.

What besides academics do you offer children?
We believe that participation in clubs and organizations is an important part of learning. On Friday afternoons, students can explore everything from sewing to chorus to making movies during our club period. In addition, there is a Cub Scout troop for boys in 2nd through 5th grades and two Girl Scout troops – a Brownie group and a Junior/Cadette group. Both meet twice each month.

How does CAPCS help parents?
We maintain close contact with our parents, whom we regard as partners in the education of children. When possible, we provide information to parents about ways to access a variety of resources available through various city and federal agencies and entities. CAPCS Parent-Teacher organization supports the school in a variety of ways and helps parents, teachers, and staff get to know each other.

Frequently Asked Questions