(Washington, DC) – Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser and DC Public Schools (DCPS) Chancellor Dr. Lewis D. Ferebee are celebrating incoming middle and high school students as they prepare for the new school year – and a new school experience – during a week-long immersion into the 6th and 9th grades. As students get ready to say good-bye to summer, attending Summer Bridge programming gives students a chance to learn about their new campuses, make friends, meet their teachers, and engage with school staff.

“The DCPS Summer Bridge program helps our young people make a successful transition into a new school experience,” said Mayor Bowser. “As a community, we want our young people to go into the new school year with the resources – and relationships – to feel confident and excited when they walk into school on that first day. That is what the Summer Bridge program helps us do.”

In middle and high schools across the District, administrators and staff will host rising 6th and 9th graders for team-building games and exercises like scavenger hunts and icebreakers, field trips, creative projects, and presentations on what they can look forward to over the next year.

“One of DCPS’ priorities outlined in our five-year Strategic Plan is to ensure students feel connected to their school.” said Chancellor Ferebee. “By providing our scholars with the opportunity to familiarize themselves with their new school environment before the start of the academic year, we’re working to cultivate a sense of belonging that will help them to build community and thrive.”

While programming dates and hours vary by school, with each school leader setting a schedule that is responsive to their community’s needs, all DCPS middle schools and high schools participate in this unique opportunity to support these critical student transitions.

Dedicated bus transportation is provided to eligible students, and students around the city attending Summer Bridge can use their Kids Ride Free cards to travel to and from school. Free breakfast and lunch are also provided for all students.

With just a few weeks left of summer before school begins on Monday, August 26, all families who have yet to complete enrollment for School Year 2024-2025 are urged to visit enrolldcps.dc.gov for enrollment information and guidance.
 

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