DCPS Becoming
We’re transforming trauma into resilience and increasing the chances of lifelong success for every student.
Schools participating or have completed whole-child model implementation program
DCPS schools with a whole child lead
Staff who have received Becoming training in the last two years.
DC Public Schools (DCPS) is committed to ensuring that every student feels supported, challenged, and prepared for success.
As part of this vision, DCPS is embracing a whole-child approach to teaching and learning—one that prioritizes academic engagement, social-emotional growth, and a strong sense of belonging for both students and educators.
Through initiatives like DCPS Becoming, the district is embedding whole-child practices across elementary, middle, and high schools to reshape what great teaching looks like and to ensure that every classroom is a place where students feel valued and connected.
With a goal of having 85% of students report a sense of belonging at school, DCPS is taking deliberate steps to integrate whole-child strategies into instruction, professional learning, and school culture. Schools are implementing proven strategies—from coaching and walkthrough tools to real-time student belongingness data—to drive attendance gains, improve school engagement, and strengthen relationships between students and staff.
This transformational approach is already delivering results: DCPS is seeing its highest student belongingness scores ever recorded and has credited this work with contributing to increased attendance and reduced suspensions in pilot schools. As DCPS moves forward, it remains focused on creating the conditions where every student can thrive, every teacher is equipped to support whole-child learning, and every school community is a place where students feel they truly belong.