Future Persists Students

Welcome, prospective DCPS Persists students! Start an impactful journey with us, where consistent support, personalized guidance, and a vibrant community are ready to empower you on your path to college success.

12th Grade

Eligibility

Choose Your Experience

Persists Coaching

9th – 11th Grade

Student Testimonials

Who we are:

DCPS Persists is a program designed specifically for graduates of DC Public Schools. Our mission? To make your transition from high school to college a smooth experience. We’re here as your dedicated team, ready to provide guidance and support throughout this exciting journey. DCPS Persists is more than a program—it’s your partner in college success. Whether you have questions about careers, need help with financial aid, or just want some extra support, we’ve got your back. Join us as you step into the exciting world of college, and let’s make this next chapter a success!

Follow Us on Instagram
@dcpspersists

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12th Graders, get ready for the next step!

Eligibility

Graduating High School Senior

We’re excited to support those gearing up for the next adventure after high school. If you’re a graduating high school senior, you’re exactly who we’re looking for! We believe in your potential and want to be part of your journey as you step into the exciting world beyond high school.

Attending a Community College, 4-Year University, or Taking a Gap Year

Whether you’re eyeing a community college, gearing up for a 4-year university, or considering a gap year—our doors are open. We celebrate diverse dreams and understand that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to success. Your path is unique, and we’re here to support it.

Priority Deadline
June 15th

Don’t forget to register for DCPS Persists services prior to the first day of your college journey!

Attend Persists Orientation

DCPS Persists Orientation is a guided introduction to our program, providing essential information and tools to help you succeed. It covers program details, strategies for success, and fosters connections, setting the stage for a rewarding journey with us.

Choose Your Experience

With DCPS Persists, the choice is yours, allowing you to customize your experience based on what you need. Whether you opt for coaching or prefer to navigate independently, rest assured that we’re here to support you every step of the way. Check out the table below to decide which option is best for you.

Curious to learn more about coaching? Click here to explore the benefits and details of this personalized support. If you have any questions or want to learn more, feel free to Contact Us.

Consider Coaching

While having a coach is optional in DCPS Persists, the excitement and benefits are undeniable! Elevate your college journey by opting for a coach and take that thrilling step closer to graduation.

Coaches can assist you with:

• Learning how to navigate your college including class registration and how to access campus resources.
• Financial Aid Applications and Renewals such as FAFSA and DC Tag
• Securing funding for unexpected college expenses through DCPS Persists Microgrants & Emergency Funding
• Academic support, career exploration, goal setting, problem-solving, networking, and so much more!

9th – 11th Graders, it’s never too early to prep for college!

Start Your College Journey Now!

It’s never too early to kickstart your college journey, and you can begin by checking out the DCPS Goes to College website. There, you’ll find information on college application and financial aid events, Dual Enrollment, SAT testing, scholarships, and more. Explore local colleges, attend virtual tours, and talk to your school counselor about your academic and career goals. Getting involved early can help you better understand your options and make informed decisions about your future. Dive into the college adventure now and set yourself up for a successful tomorrow!

Check out DCPS Goes to College

What Our Students Are Saying

“With the immense support DCPS Persists has always given me, not only academically but also financially and emotionally, I could never thank my Coach, Niara Webb, enough for checking up on me whenever I needed, from the 1-3 messages to our Zoom meetings. DCPS is more than the four years of your high school journey; it will accompany you into the next four years of your journey but as DCPS Persists!”

Yohanna MbedgueAmerican Universit, c/o 2027

“DCPS Persists is an amazing program that provides students with the essential resources needed to achieve success in college. I am grateful for the support this program offers me, significantly enriching my college journey and ensuring a fulfilling educational experience.”

Abinezer Abate University of Maryland – College Park, c/o 2027

“Being in the DCPS Persists program has helped me tremendously. Cait, my coach, has given me great advice over the course of my first semester. When I first began, I felt like a deer in headlights, but having meetings with her has made me feel better about myself and about school.”

Sadé Quick Towson University, c/o 2027

“DCPS Persists has provided me with unwavering support that allows me to flourish in not just my academics but in my personal life as well. I was blessed with the opportunity to do a live interview alongside my Persists Coach, Asheley, that granted me the ability to share my knowledge and experience with my platform and give advice to future students. The DCPS Persists program has provided me with a community of professionals and students that doesn’t gatekeep on advice, programs, support, and good times.”

Donae MillerSUNY – Oswego, c/o 2026