What makes DCP different from other high schools?
Downtown College Preparatory (DCP) is the first charter high school in Silicon Valley, and the only school that explicitly prepares underachieving students for college success. The school day runs from 8:45 within 5:00 pm and students are required to wear a uniform.

Is DCP a public school? Does it cost money to attend?
DCP is a public charter school, the San Jose Unified School District, and does not charge tuition.

What kind of student is DCP looking for?
DCP is looking for students who have not yet lived up to their full potential--those who have had little success in a traditional school environment and who will be the first in their family to graduate from college.

What advantages does a DCP student have?
The main advantage a DCP student has is the culture of academic achievement and college readiness. The whole school is designed to help students do well academically. Students are well known, and get the individualized help they need.

Does DCP have a sports program? Extracurricular activities?
DCP offers boys/girls soccer and basketball, girls volleyball, girls Lacrosse, Ultimate Frisbee, boys baseball and girls softball. DCP has a wealth of extracurricular activities including: Leadership Class, National Honor Society, MEChA (cultural club), Crew, and an Engineering Club. From talent shows, to art exhibitions, to school dances and visits to college campuses, DCP keeps students engaged and learning.

What is DCP's current student demographics?
As of Fall 2005, DCP's demographics are:

• 93% Latino
• 3% White
• 3% African American
• 1% Other
• 39% English Language Learners
• 65% qualify for free or reduced lunch
• 40% Reading below 7th grade level
• 60% Computing below 7th grade level
• 75% of students will be the first in their family to go to college

What is DCP's history? How many students attend?
DCP opened in Fall 2000 with 100 9th grade students and currently serves 400 students in grades 9-12. DCP graduated its second class of students in June of 2005. DCP now has graduated 94 students-100% of them were accepted to four-year universities and 97% of them are on track to earning a four-year degree.

What kinds of programs does DCP have to support my child?
The following are ways that DCP ensures that its students are supported: Teachers communicate with parents after homework is missed; parent conferences with teachers and administrators are available and welcome; Math and Literacy remediation classes are available; Daily tutorial is available to all students where they can receive individualized help. Although DCP works hard to support and encourage all of its students, we understand that DCP is not for every student. Students may return to regular public schools if they are not able to meet DCP's academic or behavior standards.

Can I enroll my child at any time?
DCP only enrolls students in the 9th and 10th grades. There are typically waiting lists for both classes. Because we value the relationships we have developed with current families, sibling applicants receive special consideration.