(Washington, DC) – On the first day of school, Mayor Muriel Bowser joined District leaders and community members to celebrate the ribbon-cutting of the newly expanded John R. Thompson Jr. High School, formerly known as MacArthur High School. The newly renamed institution, which honors the legacy of the renowned educator and Georgetown basketball coach, has undergone a significant $91 million expansion to accommodate up to 800 students in grades 9 through 12.
“John R. Thompson Jr. High School is a beautiful space for our students and teachers, representing the billions of dollars we have invested in our school facilities over the past two decades,” said Mayor Bowser. “I want to thank all the educators, administrators, and staff who have worked together to make today a success.”
The school’s transformation included the addition of a 33,000-square-foot building that houses new science classrooms, art and music rooms, and technology-equipped learning spaces, alongside an outdoor classroom and an indoor courtyard with views of the Potomac River. DCPS Interim Chancellor Dr. Kim Jackson emphasized the significance of the expansion, noting that it marks the first comprehensive high school addition in generations, enhancing educational opportunities within the city’s school network.
Over 50,000 K-12 students returned to DC Public Schools today, continuing their academic and social-emotional growth as the district celebrates its designation as the fastest-improving urban school system in the country. In the coming days, pre-K students will also join their peers as they embark on a new school year. The ongoing investments in educational facilities reflect the District’s commitment to providing modern learning environments, with nearly $5 billion allocated to DCPS since 2015.
Looking ahead, plans are already in motion for further enhancements at John R. Thompson Jr. High School, including a new auditorium and expanded cafeteria, which are scheduled for completion by August 2028. DGS Director Delano Hunter expressed pride in the project’s execution, highlighting the collaborative efforts to maintain school operations during the construction phase. As students and educators settle into their new surroundings, the legacy of Coach Thompson will continue to inspire future generations in the District.
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