DC Prep

Founded in 2003, DC Prep's mission is to bridge the educational divide in Washington by increasing the number of students from underserved communities with the academic preparation and personal character to succeed in competitive high schools and colleges. With a twin focus on academics and social skill development, DC Prep creates self-aware, reflective, and focused learners who are fully prepared for the next phase of their academic journey.

DC Prep currently serves over nearly 2,000 students in preschool - 8th grade on five campuses in the city's most under-resourced neighborhoods. DC Prep schools are tuition-free and open to any child in Washington, chosen by random lottery. Historically, 89% of DC Prep students are African American and 6.5% are Hispanic; 80% live in poverty (as measured by eligibility for free- and reduced-price meals), and nearly half of our students are considered "at-risk", meaning they are homeless, in transitional housing, or their families qualify for government assistance.

Based on state PARCC assessment results, DC Prep is the highest-performing network of public charter schools in Washington for eight years running. And, to date, every DC Prep graduate (~590) has been accepted by a college-prep high school with 95% earning their high school diplomas, compared to 65% in DCPS. 

At DC Prep, we believe that learning has no limits – and have created a vibrant, professional environment where good teachers become great ones - and tomorrow's school leaders. We seek only the most passionate, talented, and mission-aligned educators and provide over 300 hours of professional development annually.

Thank you for supporting to DC Prep. By donating to our network and  helping to spread the word, you’re giving kids in DC the power to do more. Learn more about us at www.dcprep.org.