The Next Step PCS is the oldest public charter school in Washington, DC, committed to providing educational opportunities to students who face extraordinary challenges. Our mission is to offer a supportive environment for students who are not supported in traditional high schools, ensuring they can continue their education. We serve approximately 500 at-risk youth each year, with a focus on English language learners and young parents.

Our bilingual ABE, GED, and ESL program is open to all youth between the ages of 16-30, offering small class sizes and a comprehensive student support services department. We provide differentiated instruction, instructional technology, tutors, and restorative practices to accommodate our diverse student body. Additionally, we offer free meals and on-site childcare services.

Our goal is to guide students in continuing their education beyond the GED, whether it be through community college, vocational programs, or further English proficiency courses. With a history dating back to 1996, we have a long-standing partnership with The Latin American Youth Center, which allows our students to access their excellent programs. The Next Step PCS is dedicated to maintaining a small, family atmosphere where every student is known personally