I’m honored to join DC Public Education Fund as the new Managing Director of Strategy and Impact.
Over the past 15 years, I’ve had the opportunity to work across philanthropy, education, and nonprofit leadership, helping mission-driven organizations strengthen partnerships, grow impact, and support communities in meaningful ways. In just a short time here, I’ve already seen that spirit come to life — from visiting students at Phelps ACE and witnessing their drive firsthand, to cheering on young mathematicians at the Capital Math Classic, to celebrating the incredible educators honored at the Standing Ovation Spring Bloom event. Moments like these remind me why this work matters so deeply.
This newsletter highlights just a few of the exciting moments from this year: progress across the education scorecard, new opportunities to share what we’re learning, celebrations of student achievement, and the partnerships that continue to move this work forward.
I’m excited to be part of this community and look forward to building alongside all of you in the years ahead.
With gratitude,
Emerald Adeyemi
Managing Director, Strategy & Impact
School Year 25-26 Highlights
DC Leads the Nation in Academic Recovery
This year, DC was ranked #1 in the nation in both math and reading recovery by the Education Recovery Scorecard, a reflection of the extraordinary leadership, innovation, and commitment across DCPS and the broader education community.
These gains are the result of years of investment in strong instruction, high-impact tutoring, educator support, and bold public-private partnerships designed to help students thrive. We’re proud to support this work alongside DCPS leaders, educators, school communities, and partners across the city.
Read more about the latest scorecard results and the collaborative efforts helping drive progress for DC students.
Introducing the “What We’re Learning” Series
We’re excited to launch “What We’re Learning,” our new blog series that explores the lessons, successes, and challenges emerging from our work alongside DCPS and partners across the city.
The series will highlight insights from initiatives supporting students, educators, and schools across DC, while sharing reflections on what it takes to scale impactful solutions in public education. “What We’re Learning” will live within our new online Insights Center, a dedicated space on our website for stories, resources, and thought leadership connected to our work.
Be sure to read our first post from President & Executive Director Jim Kline, “What We’re Learning: How Strategic Investments Expand What’s Possible for Students.”
Congratulations to the Class of 2026
We proudly celebrate the graduating students across DCPS and our partner programs whose hard work, resilience, and determination have brought them to this important milestone.
Last year, DC reached its highest graduation rate in more than a decade, surpassing 78%, reflecting the continued progress being made across the city and the dedication of students, educators, families, and school communities alike.
We are especially proud to celebrate:
- 3,000+ graduates reaching this important milestone
- Our Class of 2026 students participated in college courses, career training, internships, and credential programs at higher rates than ever! Since 2023, there has been a:
- 53% increase in Dual Enrollment participation
- 22% increase in Career and Technical Education participation
- 24% increase in acquisition of Industry credentials up
- 93% of degree-seeking seniors submitting two or more postsecondary applications, including at least one college application
To all of this year’s graduates: congratulations on all you’ve accomplished. We cannot wait to see what comes next for each of you.
In Case You Missed It
DC Public Education Fund thanks Chancellor Dr. Lewis Ferebee for his leadership as DCPS’ longest-serving chancellor and his steady guidance through the pandemic and recovery years. During his tenure, DCPS rose to #1 nationally in academic recovery, graduation rates climbed, and investments in academic acceleration, CTE, and dual enrollment expanded across the city. We’re proud to have partnered alongside DCPS throughout this progress and look forward to continuing the work ahead.
Dr. Kim Jackson has been named Interim Chancellor of DCPS by Mayor Muriel Bowser. A lifelong educator and proven leader, Dr. Jackson has spent more than a decade advancing student achievement across DCPS, from Principal of the Year at Seaton Elementary to Chief of Schools. We have had the privilege of collaborating with Dr. Jackson for many years and have seen firsthand her commitment to students, families, and educators across the District. We look forward to continuing our partnership in support of excellent outcomes for every DCPS student.
More than 350 students from DCPS and public charter schools competed in the first-ever Capital Math Classic at Nationals Park, hosted by EmpowerK12 and the Washington Nationals. From elementary through high school, students showcased rigorous problem-solving and joyful learning in action. Events like this reflect the vision behind the Capital Math Collective and the growing momentum around math achievement across DC.
This spring, we visited Phelps ACE High School to see career-connected learning in action across robotics, carpentry, electrical, HVAC, and dual enrollment pathways. Students were engaged in hands-on learning experiences that are preparing them for college, careers, and leadership opportunities. This work is part of the city’s broader Compact 2043 vision to ensure every student has access to high-quality career-connected learning opportunities.
