The Next Step Public Charter School was founded by The Latin American Youth Center and was chartered by the DCPS Public Charter School Board in 1996.  Its original purpose was to provide pregnant teens and teen parents, whose needs were not being met by traditional schools, with an alternative educational option that would enable them to reach appropriate grade levels, prevent future pregnancies, improve parenting skills, and increase self-esteem. The program has since grown to include immigrant and non-immigrant students, ages 14-21, who have not succeeded in traditional schools.

The Next Step offers a unique learning environment for young people.  Each student has his or her own goals.  Some students are building basic literacy and numeracy in their native language or are learning English as a Second Language.  Others are preparing to obtain the General Education Diploma (GED) in English and/or Spanish.  Others are getting ready for post secondary endeavors such as college, certification programs, vocational training, or a decent job.  The school’s team of teachers, counselors, support staff and administrators help all students stay on track to reach their goals and to reach their potential.

The Next Step provides a full-time academic program and has designed a curriculum that addresses students’ needs.  It is an ungraded school and students are placed in steps according to their academic level in their native language, Spanish or English.  Content courses are taught in the students’ native language and English Language Learners have classes in English as a Second Language.  Classes are small; there is one teacher for every ten students.  We have two full time counselors as well as a full time Transitions Coordinator who provide wraparound services to meet the spectrum of students’ needs.

The Next Step recognizes that there are many reasons why it is difficult for young people to stay in school.  The dedicated teachers and staff work to help students deal with these challenges and acquire the skills and knowledge they will need to become productive adults, effective parents, and self-sufficient members of their communities.