Episcopal Identity
Grounded in Values
As an Episcopal school, WES draws on a tradition that welcomes all—regardless of faith, background, or identity—and calls us to pursue peace, justice, and the dignity of every individual. Our inclusive spiritual life, anchored in weekly Chapel and Grades 2–8 Religion classes, supports students in exploring ethical questions, global faith traditions, and what it means to live a life of meaning and service.
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“This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.”
— John 15:12
Faithful and Welcoming
At Washington Episcopal School, our Episcopal identity calls us to honor the dignity of every human being. We are guided by values of compassion, inclusion, and service—creating a school community where students of all backgrounds are known, loved, and supported. Rooted in faith and open to all, we seek to instill a sense of purpose, empathy, and belonging in every child.
WES welcomes families of all kinds. As an Episcopal school, we reflect the inclusive values of the Episcopal Church—celebrating the rich diversity of our world and committing to peace, justice, and belonging for all people. We center values and spiritual wellness through weekly Chapel and Religion classes in Grades 2–8, where students explore the Bible, ethical thinking, and global faith practices. WES proudly embraces families from all religious and non-religious backgrounds, including LGBTQIA+ families, and honors the uniqueness of every child and household in our care.
Together, our founding vision and Episcopal heritage guide us in nurturing joyful learners who are confident in their abilities, compassionate in their hearts, and prepared to positively contribute to a diverse world.
Students volunteer to participate in weekly chapels as acolytes, readers, AV technicians, and through musical performances.
Participating in Chapel gives students the opportunity to speak, reflect, and lead in front of their peers—helping them grow in confidence, empathy, and a sense of shared responsibility.
Religion Class Explores Values, Faith, and Ethics
Beginning in Grade 2, students take Religion as a special subject, exploring holy texts, important values, and global faiths. In Grades 7 and 8, a two-year Ethics sequence helps students develop a personal moral code, culminating in Grade 8 capstone projects that teach younger Dragons how to practice kindness in daily life.
Weekly and Special Chapels
All students attend weekly Chapel—a reflective gathering rooted in Episcopal tradition and welcoming of all faiths. Services include song, prayer, a Bible story, and a values-based message on themes like kindness or courage. Chapel is split up by age groups: Grades 2-8 are together, while PK3 to Grade 1 students attend a special Early Childhood Chapel with age-appropriate topics and themes. Guest speakers are frequently invited to share their perspectives or service work. To read more about our Special Chapels throughout the year, please see below.
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Experience the heart of our community in Chapel
Opening Chapel
For the entire school on the first Friday of the school year. This Chapel concludes with a critical WES tradition: our Grade 8 “Lifers” who have been with us since their early childhood days ring the school bell, officially marking the beginning of the new year.
St. Francis Chapel
For the entire school, early in October. Saint Francis of Assisi is known for his care for the vulnerable and his connection with creation. This Chapel includes a Blessing of the Animals, and our students are invited to bring a photo of their pets or a special stuffed animal to be blessed.
All Saints' Chapel
For the entire school in early November, this Chapel honors loved ones. Communion or a blessing will also be offered at this service (Early Childhood students will leave after the Chapel talk, but before Communion). Families get details by email a week before and can contact our Chaplain for more information.
Thanksgiving Chapel
On Grandparents and Special Friends Day, this service celebrates our community's religious and cultural diversity and encourages gratitude as Thanksgiving approaches. Though some grandparents and special friends participate, all family members are welcome!
Christmas Chapel
For the entire school on the last day before our winter break. Our Elementary students lead this longstanding WES tradition and tell the story of the birth of Jesus with both story and song.
MLK Jr. Chapel
For the entire school the week before Dr. King’s holiday, this Chapel honors his legacy and the ongoing need for justice. We also conduct a school-wide service project each January in Dr. King's honor.
Ash Wednesday Chapel
For the entire school in February or March, this Chapel marks the beginning of Lent and invites reflection on growing in love. It includes ashes or a special blessing for those who wish (Early Childhood students will leave after the Chapel talk but before ashes are given out). Families get details by email a week prior and can contact our Chaplain for more information.
Easter Chapel
On the Wednesday after Easter, this Chapel celebrates new life for the entire school and includes Communion or a special blessing for Grades 1-8. PK3, PK4, and Kindergarten students are dismissed before this part of the service. Families receive details by email a week prior.
St. George's Chapel
This chapel is open to the entire school in April. It honors our school’s patron saint and celebrates the St. George’s Society members who have served as WES educators for fifteen years or more. Saint George is remembered for his strength, courage, and faithfulness.
Closing Chapel
On the last day of the school year, this chapel brings the entire school together as we wrap up the year and move into summer break.