Beating the Odds

A recent Black Alliance for Educational Options (BAEO) report noted that in 2013 only 19% of US-born Black citizens 25 years or older had earned a college degree. Earning a college degree is the surest way out of poverty and is essential with the changing labor market and global economy. By 2020, two-thirds of our jobs will require some college experience according to the Georgetown Center on Education and the Workforce. 

As we celebrate Black History Month, African Americans make up 49% of Washington, DC’s population and the 76% of the students in DC public charter schools, compared to 67% of students in the traditional school system. DC public charter schools are paving the way for African American first generation college students through its large network of successful schools that offer academic supports such as extended day, Saturday programming, or tutoring that ensures every student is prepared for college and beyond.