This year’s High School EdFEST, held on Dec. 6, drew a diverse crowd of students and families looking to better understand the academic offerings, extracurricular activities, and support services available across the city.
For military parent Sean Beeler, attending the event for the first time provided clarity as he and his daughter explore their next steps. “This event is great because it lets people know all the services that are available, all the different schools that are available, the pros and cons of each school,” Beeler said.
His daughter, Madelyn, an 8th grader preparing for high school, said she is looking for a place where she can grow both academically and socially.
“I’m looking for a school where I can try new types of classes, meet new teachers, and make new friends,” she said.
Parents who already have experience in the public charter sector also came to learn more about high school options. Erica Adams, whose son currently attends a public charter school, said she wanted a deeper understanding of what lies ahead. “I wanted to get to know more about what the high schools offer since my son is going to enter high school, ninth grade,” Adams said.
Students used the event to compare programs. Thirteen-year-old Rashad Harris said he was drawn to schools that offer academic variety. “I like KIPP because it has lots of different courses and opportunities that I can take that will help me throughout high school,” he said. “I’m thinking about getting into a good high school that will support me, help me make good decisions, and just overall have a good high school experience.”
For some attendees, the goal is to find a school that supports both academic and career readiness. Fourteen-year-old Dejuan Moore said he is looking for programs that will prepare him for a job and sports. “I’m looking for a well-rounded high school experience because it can give you work experience, set you up for different jobs, and expose you to athletics,” he said.
School leaders also emphasized the welcoming spirit of the event. Dr. Vance Benton, principal of Richard Wright Public Charter School, said he hoped families felt encouraged to explore what his school has to offer. “I want families to feel that this is the place for them to be,” Benton said. “I want them to feel it’s interesting enough to come and visit… like they’re cared for even before they come to us.”
Some families came with a clear vision of what type of school community best fits their needs. Danielle Henry, whose older children attended public charter schools, said she is leaning toward that option again for her youngest.
“I think that the [public] charter school high school options offer the sort of well-rounded education that I received,” she said.
The next EdFEST event, focused on PK3 -Grade 8 programs, will take place on Dec. 12, allowing families of younger students to explore early childhood and elementary options across the city.
As the My School DC lottery prepares to open, EdFEST 2025 continues to serve as an important resource for families planning for their child’s educational future. If you’re interested in learning more about a specific school, you can attend a scheduled Open House at that school by visiting myschooldc.org.