(Washington, DC) – Mayor Muriel Bowser joined District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) Chancellor Kaya Henderson and Howard University President Dr. Wayne A.I. Frederick today at the historic university to announce a new partnership aimed at providing expanded learning opportunities and advanced college preparation for high school students.
Beginning school year 2015-2016, 12th-grade students at Banneker and McKinley Technology high schools will have the opportunity to enroll in college courses at Howard University and earn high school and college credit. Students will have access to undergraduate course offerings and can take up to two courses per semester and one course during the summer session. The University will waive all tuition and fees; the Office of the State Superintendent of Education will cover the cost of books and transportation.
“Our young people deserve and desire more opportunities that will expand their academic horizons and put them on a pathway to the middle class,” said Mayor Bowser. “This new program is an excellent example of a public-private partnership that looks to the future of this city with optimism and hope. Students will gain valuable experiences that will propel them to greater heights and accelerate their path to the college and career of their dreams.”
To be eligible for the dual-enrollment program, students must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and submit a personal essay and a recommendation letter from their school’s principal or counselor. College credits earned through the program can be applied to a degree program at Howard University or transferred to another four-year college or university upon graduation.
“Howard University and DCPS share a rich history of providing students with opportunities to explore their academic interests and advance their knowledge of the world around them,” said Dr. Wayne A.I. Frederick, president of Howard University “I am proud to deepen our relationship through the dual-enrollment partnership. Through this program, we are aiming to inspire and develop the next generation of leaders and innovators from right here in the District.”
“This collaboration provides our students with unprecedented access to a treasure trove of opportunities,” said DCPS Chancellor Kaya Henderson. “The benefits of this program go far beyond exposure to rigorous college courses. It will give students the focus, confidence, and foundation that they will need to succeed in college and 21st century careers. We are grateful to Howard University for their generous support and continued commitment to our students’ success.”
DCPS will expand the dual-enrollment program model to all high schools over the next three years through new partnerships with other local universities. DCPS currently offers dual-enrollment programs through partnerships with George Washington University (School Without Walls program) and the University of the District of Columbia (College Access and Readiness for Everyone, or CARE, program).