DC Prep was founded in 2003. From the outset, its leaders sought to bring the lessons learned by high-performing charter schools to bear on the tremendous need in Washington, as well as to create an effective organization capable of opening and running high-quality schools on a large scale in DC.
DC Prep's founders were guided by the following core beliefs:
- All students can achieve to a high standard.
- Rigorous academics and character development are inextricably-linked components of an exemplary education. Learning can only take place in an orderly environment where expectations are high, clear, and consistent.
- Faculty must be dedicated, effective, and caring, and they must regularly improve their practice. They must serve as models for students in every way.
- Continuous assessment and reflection are essential ingredients in an outstanding, growth-oriented enterprise.
- Teachers, staff, students, and parents need to know that they are teaching and learning within a responsible, sustainable, and supportive structure.
DC Prep has a straightforward mission: to bridge the educational divide in Washington. By providing students with an outstanding education that emphasizes rigorous academics and character development, we aim to prepare our graduates for success in top-tier high schools, college, and adult life.
DC Prep's first school – the Edgewood Middle Campus – began with 100 students in grades 4 and 5. Now at full scale, DC Prep serves 275 students in grades 4-8. DC Prep graduated its first class of 8th graders in June 2007.
In 2007, DC Prep embarked on an ambitious expansion effort, and has since opened the Edgewood and Benning Elementary Campuses. Building on the experience gained at the first campus, we aim to create a system of schools that will transform the academic and career futures of thousands of DC children. DC Prep will ultimately grow to ten campuses and enroll 10% of students in PreSchool-8th grade in Wards 5, 6, 7 and 8. Once at scale, DC Prep will graduate 200 students each year.
By expanding the number of seats in academically rigorous preschool-8th grade programs, DC Prep will dramatically increase the number of low-income students who are prepared to enroll in rigorous high schools and go on to earn a college degree.
|
