Nannie Helen Burroughs School is a coeducational Elementary school, including nursery level through grade six.

The school was founded in 1909 by the great educator, orator, religious leader and businesswoman, Dr. Nannie Helen Burroughs, who envisioned a school for young women, which would combine qualitative vocational training with traditional Christian values. The school, The Nation Trade and Professional School for Women and Girls, Inc., opened its doors on October 18, 1909, with Ms. Burroughs as President.

Under the motto, “We specialize in the wholly impossible”, Ms. Burroughs sought “the highest development of Christian womanhood”, through a curriculum designed to emphasize practical and professional skills. Of particular pride at the National Training School was its Black History Program. The school’s campus spans eight or more acres of a beautiful rolling hill dubbed by Ms. Burroughs as the Holy Hill.

After a siege of illness, President Burroughs passed away on May 20, 1961. In 1966, the Board of Trustees voted to change the name of the school to the Nannie Helen Burroughs School, Inc., as a tribute to the memory of Dr. Burroughs.

There are many noteworthy dates in the history of the school; however, one of particular significance was the beginning of the Elementary School program and Bi-lingual studies in 1969. Between 1971 and 1974, there were the erection, cornerstone laying and dedication of the over $1,000,000.00 new administration-classroom building.

The school has had three presidents since its inception. After Dr. Burroughs' death, in 1961, Dr. Rebekah J. Calloway, Dr. Aurelia R. Downey and several interim administrators succeeded her. Mrs. Mattie Robinson served as principal for five years. She later became the Coordinator for the NHB School System. In 1993, Mrs. Shirley G. Hayes joined the Nannie Helen Burroughs School after many successful years of service in the District of Columbia School System.

Mrs. Hayes has decided to retire this year and is very pleased to hand the mantle of leadership to Mrs. Rita O. Johnson a long time educator and Christian. She will continue to direct this very capable staff to enhance the foundation established by Dr. Burroughs so many years ago.

With Dr. Burroughs’ vision and the fine work of her successors, the Nannie Helen Burroughs School continues to look toward a positive and fruitful future for the school and its students.