DC Public School’s Urban Education Leaders Internship Program (UELIP) is an opportunity to experience the unique and exciting work of managing an urban school district. Offered on a semesterly basis by the Office of Leadership Development, the program provides individuals with opportunity to receive experience working in the Central Office of DC Public Schools, one of the most innovative school districts in the United States.

UELIP isn’t your average internship. Associates participate on mission-critical projects that aim to close the opportunity gap in urban education. Paired with a team of professionals in Central Office, associates participate in professional development including mentorship and coaching from district leaders, develop skills, network, and complete a final Capstone project—gaining hands-on experience to create positive change. 

UELIP Associates are an important part of the team(s) they work with and are treated as colleagues and equals, DCPS looks to UELIP Associates for innovative, out-of-the-box solutions to systemic urban education challenges. 

Who Should Apply?

You should consider applying for UELIP if:

• You want to take on real responsibilities in a challenging and supportive environment. The responsibilities given to UELIP Associates are carefully vetted to ensure that you perform purposeful, mission-driven work. UELIP Associates are paired one-to-one with a supervisor who supports you throughout your internship and guides your project(s).

• You aspire to a career involving educational transformation. UELIP Associates, like their full-time DCPS colleagues, are all motivated to do one thing: transform public education. At DCPS, you’ll learn what it takes to turn an urban school district into one of the highest-performing districts in the country. The skills you’ll learn at DCPS can be applied in a variety of ways in your future career, in education, or other related industries.

• You are looking for an organized program that invests in its interns. DCPS places great value on the time and effort that UELIP Associates commit to our district and seeks to develop the talent and skills of future education leaders through various professional development opportunities. DCPS provides professional development sessions and networking activities, making time for you to meet other teams and engage in peer-to-peer learning.