For ten years, EmpowerK12 has celebrated DC schools where scholars from priority groups (economically disadvantaged students, students with disabilities, English learners, and students of color) boldly exceed academic expectations. This year, 21 schools earned this honor, and nine are public charter schools.

To kick off the celebration, EmpowerK12 hosted “Bold Walks,” inviting DC leaders, partners, and educators to tour Bold Performance Schools and witness their educational models in action.

One standout campus was DC Prep Edgewood Middle Public Charter School. As visitors walked through the building, school leaders showcased what continued excellence looks like in real time, and what this recognition means to their school community.

“It really lets us know the work we’re doing day to day is effective,” said DC Prep Assistant Principal Darren Daly. “I was in the classroom for the fifth time we won; it was exciting because you get to see the rewards of what you’re doing and implementing each day.”

When asked what drives that success, Daly emphasized the foundation of all learning: consistent attendance.

“Attendance is very big for us. Making sure we’re hitting 92 percent attendance every day so we’re achieving that goal of decreasing our chronic absenteeism numbers over the span of the year.”

We are proud of DC Prep and the eight other public charter schools recognized this year as Bold Performance Schools:

• Center City PCS – Congress Heights
• Friendship PCS – Blow Pierce Middle
• Friendship PCS – Chamberlain Elementary
• Friendship PCS – Ideal Elementary
• Friendship PCS – Ideal Middle
• Global Citizens PCS
• KIPP DC PCS – Promise Academy
• Washington Global PCS

To learn more about all the 2026 honorees, visit EmpowerK12’s website. To explore public charter options in your neighborhood, visit our school profiles.