WES is still accepting applications for 2024-2025 in selected grades. Limited places remain: contact the Admission Office to learn more and apply now.
At Washington Episcopal School, every child immerses themselves in both visual and performing arts. Our top-notch facilities include two art studios, a ceramics studio with a kiln, multiple music rooms, and a stage. Students from PK3 to Middle School create diverse artworks, perform in plays, and learn music in an environment designed to nurture their artistic talents.
From early childhood through middle school, students actively participate in a wide range of creative endeavors. They explore various art mediums, develop musical skills, and gain confidence through theatrical performances. Our comprehensive arts program ensures that each student has the opportunity to discover and develop their unique artistic abilities.
At Washington Episcopal School, the Sixth-Grade Musical, directed by Ron Valenzia, is a highly anticipated highlight of the academic year. Starting in November, students eagerly learn which show has been selected, and by January, they dive into rehearsals. Valenzia witnesses remarkable transformations as introverted students blossom into confident performers. Every Grade 6 student participates, gaining a sense of accomplishment from their collective efforts in a large-scale production. The musical culminates in March with two performances, showcasing their talents and teamwork, with Grade 5 providing choral accompaniment.
Recent productions include “Footloose,” “The Lion King Jr.,” “Peter Pan Jr.,” “Beauty and the Beast Jr.,” and “Alice in Wonderland Jr.,” each offering a unique creative platform. This tradition not only highlights students’ talents but also builds their confidence and fosters a strong sense of unity.
Our winter and spring concerts are a wonderful opportunity for the community to enjoy music performed by our talented Grades 4-8 band, chorus students, and our Jam Band. These concerts feature a delightful mix of holiday and pop songs that will surely have you singing along. Students showcase everything they’ve learned throughout the semester to deliver an impressive performance. Our dedicated Band Director, Jody Henderson, and Performing Arts Director, Ron Valenzia, led the concerts, ensuring a memorable experience for all.
Our Spring Arts Festival is a time to celebrate the creativity of our visual artists at every grade level. Each year features a different theme, transforming the school’s rooms and hallways into vibrant galleries for our families to enjoy. There is no cost—everyone is welcome! Led by our fabulous Art Department, past festivals have offered much more than displayed art. Highlights have included an underwater-themed glow room, poetry readings, live music by WES students, student art demonstrations, and snacks and beverages.
A longstanding tradition at our school concludes the academic year with Grade 8 students showcasing their English class knowledge through a performance of Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Throughout the year, students immerse themselves in Shakespeare’s works, studying iambic pentameter, operative words, and the emotional nuances of his literature. Under the guidance of the Grade 8 English teacher and our performing arts director, students not only perform but also build sets and design their own costumes, integrating their learning into a creative and collaborative project that celebrates their academic journey and artistic expression.
Our May Day performance is a joyful celebration featuring our youngest dragons from PK3 to Grade 1. These adorable performers sing, dance, and play a variety of instruments, putting on a concert that’s sure to delight everyone. Each year brings a new and exciting theme, with past favorites including a jungle adventure and songs of the sea. The students dress in creative costumes to match the theme, adding to the fun and festive atmosphere. This heartwarming event is led by our talented Early Childhood Music Teacher, Monica Shelly, and is truly one of the highlights of the school year.
Our grade-level assemblies are lively and fun performances featuring our talented students from Kindergarten through Grade 5. Each grade comes up with a unique theme inspired by our school’s virtues and motto, bringing these values to life in creative ways. Held throughout the spring semester, these assemblies are a fantastic mix of entertainment and education. With the help of their teachers and our Early Childhood Music Teacher, students deliver engaging performances that teach valuable life lessons. These events showcase our students’ creativity and teamwork, making them a delightful experience for everyone.
