DC3C Activities
DC3C Pathway Prep: School-Based Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS)
DC3C Pathway Prep: Empowering Transitions, Inspiring Futures
The DC3C Pathway Prep program helps middle and high school students with disabilities in DC Public Charter Schools prepare for life after graduation. From the classroom to careers, our program builds confidence, skills, and career awareness so students can make informed choices about their futures. Delivered directly in schools, we use interactive, multimedia lessons designed by experts in transition services to bring career readiness to life. As part of the DC3C continuum of programming, Pathway Prep ensures students are building the foundation they need for success in postsecondary education, employment, and community life.
What We Do
Our classrooms are alive with discovery. Through engaging, multimedia lessons and real-world activities, students explore career pathways, practice workplace skills, and learn how to advocate for themselves. With DC3C’s proven expertise, Pathway Prep delivers a hands-on learning experience that meets students where they are and prepares them for where they’re going.
We focus on five key areas:
- Job Exploration Counseling – Multimedia career assessments, goal-setting, and exposure to industries across DC.
- Postsecondary Guidance – College and vocational exploration, application support, and financial aid resources.
- Self-Advocacy – Role-play and scenario-based training that empowers students to speak up, set goals, and know their rights.
- Work-Based Learning – Job shadows, workplace tours, and interactive projects that connect classroom learning to real opportunities.
- Work Readiness Training – Resumes, interviews, and professional communication made practical and accessible.
Why It Matters
Traditional instruction alone isn’t enough. Students need interactive, skill-based experiences that connect learning to the world beyond school. Pathway Prep delivers exactly that—equipping students with the tools, confidence, and awareness to transition smoothly into higher education, training, or meaningful employment. By embedding these lessons in the classroom, we make career readiness part of everyday learning while connecting students to the broader DC3C programming pipeline of summer employment, workplace tours, and job shadows.
Our Impact
- Builds independence and self-confidence.
- Strengthens communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
- Connects students with real-world opportunities through multimedia and hands-on learning.
- Supports long-term success in education, employment, and community life as part of the DC3C continuum.
Register Your School/LEA Today!
School/LEA Registration
DC3C Pathway Prep is a free service for all DC Special Education Cooperative member schools.
Sign up today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A: Pathway Prep is open to students ages 14–22 who have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 Plan and attend a public charter school affiliated with the DC Special Education Cooperative (Co-op) member network.
This program is supported through the District of Columbia Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA), which helps students with disabilities prepare for careers, education, training, and independent living after high school through Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS).
To participate, students must have a completed RSA Pre-ETS Consent Form on file:
For questions about eligibility or enrollment, please contact your school’s transition specialist, special education coordinator, or the DC3C team.
A: Pathway Prep goes beyond traditional transition programs by bringing career readiness directly into the classroom. Our expert team delivers lessons through interactive, multimedia methods—videos, role-play, and hands-on projects—that keep students engaged and motivated. Unlike one-size-fits-all programs, Pathway Prep is part of the larger DC3C continuum of services and can be customized to meet the needs of each school or LEA, ensuring students get the most relevant and impactful experience.
A: DC3C staff deliver Pathway Prep lessons directly in classrooms using a tailored curriculum that combines our proven expertise with each school’s unique needs. While we provide an engaging, multimedia-based program, we can also integrate or align with a school or LEA’s preferred curriculum. This flexible approach ensures students receive high-quality transition services that fit seamlessly into their learning environment.
A: No—Pathway Prep is a free service for all DC Special Education Cooperative member schools. It’s included as part of your membership and designed to ensure every student has access to high-quality transition programming. For any questions, please contact our Director of Workforce Readiness, Mrs. Erika Thomas (ethomas@specialedcoop.org).