Q: Who do I contact if my child is going to be late or unable to attend virtually or in person?
A: If your scholar is going to be late to or absent from school, please call the main office at 202-399-4750 by 9 am.
Absences will be excused for:
- Illness. A doctor's note is needed if the scholar will be absent for more than three days.
- Religious holiday.
- Death in the family. Documentation is needed, such as a funeral program.
- Family emergency.
- Out-of-school or in-school suspension.
Other absences must be approved in advance by an IDEA administrator upon written request by a parent or guardian.
Q: Who do I contact with questions about enrollment?A: Visit our
Admissions page to learn more or call the main office at 202-399-4750 and ask for registration and enrollment.
Q: What are students required to wear at IDEA?
A: Scholars are required to wear IDEA uniforms.
Learn more about uniforms here.
Q: What are the best transportation options for getting to IDEA?
A: IDEA provides a
free safe passage shuttle bus that makes several stops in the community in the morning and afternoon. The Deanwood Metro station is on the Orange Line, located two blocks from the school. The bus route that comes nearest to the school is U4 and drops students off half a block from the school. The DC Department of Transportation provides Kids Ride Free cards. These cards allow students free travel across the city by bus and train. Cards are disbursed by the main office team.
Q: Who do I call with questions about student Kids Ride Free (KRF) cards?
A: Call the main office at 202-399-4750.
Q: Who do I contact to have my child evaluated for exceptional education (formerly known as special education) services? What are the rights of my child under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act?
A: Contact
Director of Exceptional Education Sybil Pernell to learn about all of IDEA's student support services. Please visit
OSSE to learn more about your child’s rights to educational support.
Q: Who do I contact if I have other questions?
A: Contact staff members at 202-399-4750 or by email.