The 2025 Career Ready Early Scholars Program (CRESP) Application Is Now closed!
What is the Career Ready Early Scholar Program (CRESP)?
The Career Ready Early Scholar Program (CRESP) is a locally funded initiative sponsored by the Department of Employment Services (DOES). CRESP provides District scholars aged 9 to 13 - who are in middle school or elementary school – a chance to engage in comprehensive college and career exploration programming. This program provides a diverse and hands-on experience during the summer, helping young scholars discover various college and career pathways and develop essential skills for their future.
Through CRESP, we empower scholars to:
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Earn money while developing valuable skills in academic, leadership and personal enrichment, setting them up for success in their educational pursuits from grade school to higher education and beyond,
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Gain exposure to various topics such as financial literacy, college readiness, healthcare, public safety, STEM, entrepreneurship, AI/Robotics and film, music, entertainment and more;
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Experience learning in various settings throughout the District, including colleges and universities, as well as DCPS public, private or charter schools.
Though CRESP is a short-term exploration program, our goal is to introduce our scholars to career and college-readiness, workforce and leadership development and self-awareness and advocacy.
Eligibility:
District scholars must be between 9- 13 years old. Youth can be 8 years old to enter the program however you must be 9 years old by September 30, 2025.
Program Dates and Times:
Spring Cohort Session: Monday, April 14, 2025, to Friday, April 18, 2025
Summer Cohort Session: Monday, June 23, 2025 – Friday, August 1, 2025
All programs operate from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM.