Double the Numbers Initiative

The Double the Numbers coalition represents an unprecedented commitment by community leaders to ensure that many more DC students succeed in college. Specifically, starting with students who entered 9th grade in September 2006, we hope to double the numbers of 9th graders who finish high school within five years, enroll in college, and graduate from college within five years; currently, only 9 percent of our students do so, less than half the national average. This is a looming crisis for them and all of us. Click here for a report that documents our collective challenge.

In response to the educational imperative, numerous groups have united around a five-part action agenda:

• Create a districtwide college-going culture
• Increase the number of college-ready high school graduates
• Improve postsecondary transitions
• Increase college persistence
• Create environment for reform

To implement the agenda, the Coalition is working closely with all those who share the urgency of our mission, including Mayor Fenty, the City Council, other policymakers, college access providers, principals, teachers, counselors, parents, business and community leaders, and the students who are counting on the leadership of adults to help secure their futures.