New Wing Construction
We’re excited to share some great news about a big improvement coming to our school! Starting on Monday, April 20, 2025, construction will begin to replace the trailers with a brand-new, permanent structure. This new addition will provide our students with a more comfortable learning environment. We expect the project to be completed by the summer of 2026, and students will begin using the new classrooms at the start of school year 2026-27.
Please see below for important frequently asked questions. For more information, contact the school or see the full scope of the construction project on the DCPS website at the link below.
Construction Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the changes to entry and exit points to the school?
A: Students and families will enter and exit the school from Crittenden Street, up the stairs. A ramp is available through the teacher parking lot (entrance from 5th St. NW). After you walk up the stairs or the ramp, you will cross through the playground and to the main front entrance.
Q: Where is drop-off and pick-up for before and after-school?
A: Starting school year 2025-26, picking up and dropping off students—regardless of what time—will take place via Crittenden St. up the stairs (or via the ramp through the teacher parking lot.
Q: Is there any extra support provided by staff during pick-up and drop-off times?
A: Crossing guards, staff, and sometimes parent volunteers will be there to help guide students safely into the building.
Q: Where does school bus drop-off take place during construction?
A: School buses will drop students off at the corner of 4th and Crittenden Street. Teacher assistants will escort students inside the building.
Q: I’m a Barnard neighbor, and I’ve noticed a lot more traffic, commotion, and litter on Crittenden St. NW. What should I do?
A: Thank you for your patience and support us during this transition! We welcome extra hands cleaning up litter as well as extra eyes for children’s safety during the morning and afternoon drop-off and pick-up rush. As a litter mitigation effort, we worked with the city waste office to have an additional waste basket added to Crittenden Street, and we welcome additional ideas for keeping the neighborhood tidy and safe. Thank you again for your support of your neighborhood public school; as they say, “it takes a village!”
Q: Are there disruptions to neighborhood parking during construction?
A: Parking is still available on neighborhood streets as before construction. Please follow street signs carefully to ensure you are following posted parking regulations. During congested morning drop-off and pick-up time periods, safety is essential; it is important to drive cautiously around children. Additionally, please be respectful of our neighbors’ driveways.
Q: When will the new wing be open?
A: We expect the project to be completed by the summer of 2026, and students will begin using the new classrooms at the start of school year 2027.