Mission & History
Kind. Confident. Prepared.
Vision
Washington Episcopal School students stride confidently into the world, delight in and contribute to it.
Mission
Washington Episcopal School inspires academic and personal excellence within a joyful learning environment to develop students that are kind, confident, and prepared.
Identity
- Motto: "Be Kind"
- Colors: Blue and Gold
- Patron Saint: St. George
- Mascot: Wesley the Dragon
Our History
Washington Episcopal School was founded in 1986 by a group of visionary parents and Isabelle S. Schuessler, former Head of St. Patrick’s Episcopal Day School. With the support of Board Chair Robert E. Freer and founding members like Dorothy McSweeny, WES opened its doors that fall to 90 students in the basement of Pilgrim Lutheran Church in Bethesda. Just one year later, the school moved to its current, conveniently located campus near Washington, D.C., and Northern Virginia.
Over the years, WES steadily grew, adding Grades 7 and 8 in 1995 and launching its hallmark international study trips to Utah, Italy, France, and Spain. A successful capital campaign and the purchase of neighboring land in 2004–2005 paved the way for expanded facilities, including new classrooms, art studios, science labs, and athletic spaces.
Leadership transitions brought continued innovation. Stuart Work (2001–2011) enhanced academic programs, added a ceramics and science center, and introduced Spanish and international exchanges. Kirk Duncan (2011–2014) led major campus upgrades, including the East Campus development and installation of a turf field. After Interim Head Nancy Wright, Danny Vogelman was appointed Head of School in 2015, bringing decades of leadership experience and a strong vision for WES’s future.
Our Founder
Isabelle Schuessler (1934–2023) founded Washington Episcopal School in 1986, following a remarkable 24-year career at St. Patrick’s Episcopal Day School, where she served as Head for two decades. A pioneering educator and leader within the National Association of Episcopal Schools, Mrs. Schuessler was known for her vision, warmth, and unwavering belief in the power of early childhood education to shape lives with kindness, confidence, and purpose.
With the support of committed parents and community leaders, she opened WES in the basement of Pilgrim Lutheran Church in Bethesda with 90 students and a bold dream. Under her leadership, WES quickly grew—relocating to its current campus, launching the school’s signature international study trips, starting the beloved Grade 6 Musical, and completing the school’s first capital campaign, which led to transformative campus improvements.
Mrs. Schuessler retired in 2001 but remained an active and beloved presence at WES for years to come, often connecting with alumni and former faculty. Her passion for joyful, values-based learning continues to shape the WES experience. Her legacy lives on in every classroom, every student, and the enduring mission she helped build.
St. George's Society
The St. George’s Society honors the founding faculty of WES for their remarkable dedication and commitment in taking the school from a dream to a thriving institution. Membership is open to those faculty, staff, and administrators who have faithfully served the school for at least 15 years. We are grateful for their outstanding service.