Bright Paths DC
Pathways to College and Careers
OUR PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
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ACADEMIC SUPPORT
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One on-one and small group high-impact tutoring for subject proficiency
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Math, reading, writing, science
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Classroom/homework assignment completion
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Study and organizational skills
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Progress monitoring and goal setting
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Supported by experienced educators
COLLEGE ACCESS
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Individualized college advising
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College application strategy sessions
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Personal statement writing workshops
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Financial aid, FAFSA, and scholarship counseling
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College tours and admissions events
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First-year college persistence coaching
POSTSECONDARY CAREER ACCESS
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Career exploration workshops
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Resume building and interview preparation
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Professional skills training
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Support in accessing certification programs (IT, healthcare, trades)
OUR COMMITMENT
Bright Paths DC is dedicated to supporting DC students in under-resourced high schools with the academic tools, mentorship, and opportunities they need to thrive. We believe that zip code should never determine a student’s future, and that every young person deserves access to high-quality educational support and pathways to success.
Our work centers on partnering directly with DC public and charter high schools to provide academic
enrichment, as well as college and career readiness programming. Through responsive instruction, mentorship, and individualized support, we are committed to helping students build confidence, develop critical skills, and envision futures filled with possibility.
Our programs are designed by drawing on many years of lived experiences and in collaboration with educators and students to ensure they are relevant, effective, and sustainable. By addressing both academic and non-academic barriers, we work to close opportunity gaps and create equitable outcomes for our students.
Together with schools, families, volunteers, and supporters, we are investing in the potential of DC’s students—because when students are supported, communities grow stronger.
ABOUT US
Bright Paths DC is a 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit organization. Our staff are experienced educators, college access professionals, and trades experts, and our leadership team has extensive expertise in education, community development, finance, and nonprofit management.
OUR LEADERSHIP TEAM
David Thurston, M.A.
Executive Director
David Thurston is a Washington, D.C. native with many years of teaching and tutoring experience, supporting middle school, high school, and college students. In addition to running his own tutoring company, David has worked as a tutor and college-access advisor in the D.C. public schools, since 2018. David specializes in ELA, organizational skills, and college readiness. He is committed to providing low-income D.C. public school students with the highest level of tutoring and college/career support.
Cherrye Jeter
Board Member
Cherrye Jeter is an educator, child and youth developmental strategist, and community leader dedicated to creating pathways for young people to thrive academically and beyond. With experience spanning youth development, program design, and systems leadership, she is passionate about removing barriers and building environments where students feel supported, capable, and seen. Cherrye brings a human-centered, equity-driven approach to her board service, grounded in the belief that every young person deserves access to opportunity, guidance, and lasting success.
Paul Penniman
Board Member
Paul Penniman has spent his career in education, first as an award-winning teacher and coach at the Edmund Burke School, in Washington, D.C., and later as the founder and Executive Director of Resources to Inspire Students and Educators, an educational nonprofit supporting D.C. public school students. After 20 years of successfully running the organization, Paul retired in 2022 to dedicate his time to mentoring young adults in D.C. Paul is extremely excited to be working with the dedicated team at Bright Paths DC.
Beth Harris
Board Member
Beth Harris is a college access and admissions counselor with over 15 years of experience supporting underrepresented students through the college admissions process. With expertise in college exploration, applications, and enrollment, as well as FAFSA completion, scholarships, and grants, Beth helps students and families make informed, financially responsible decisions. She is committed to demystifying the cost of higher education and empowering first-generation and underserved students to pursue postsecondary success.
