Washington, D.C. – D.C. Scores, the nonprofit that blends soccer, poetry and service learning for elementary and middle‑school students, will suspend its after‑school program at nine district schools for the 2026‑27 school year. Executive Director Katrina Owens said the pause is a direct result of the organization’s most challenging fundraising year ever.
Schools affected
The schools losing full programming are Boone Elementary, Bunker Hill Elementary, Cardozo Education Campus, John Lewis Education Campus, KIPP DC AIM Academy, KIPP DC Key Academy, Langley Elementary, McKinley Tech Middle School and Meridian Public Charter School. In addition, 20 other schools will no longer receive the abbreviated Junior Scores program for first‑ and second‑graders.
Why the cuts
Owens explained that soaring inflation has driven up the cost of every component of the program – from field permits and paint to transportation, coach stipends and soccer uniforms. The organization now spends about $1,400 per “poet‑athlete” each year, a 50 % increase since before the pandemic.
Despite raising $5.6 million in grants and contributions in 2024, D.C. Scores’ expenses topped $5 million, and grant funding from local and federal sources has remained flat for five years. “We’re able to do less with the same amount of money,” Owens said, noting that the nonprofit has struggled to secure new revenue streams to bridge the gap.
Fundraising push
To keep the remaining 60 schools operational, D.C. Scores is launching a $3.5 million Poet‑Athlete Impact Fund. The public can donate directly online, and the organization hopes the fund will allow it to restore programming at the paused schools later this year.
Owens also highlighted the upcoming “One Night One Goal” fundraiser at Audi Field on Oct. 6. The event will feature live poetry readings by student participants, a silent auction and appearances by Washington Spirit and D.C. United players.
Community response
Parents and community members have expressed concern that the pause removes a valuable outlet for physical activity, creative expression and mentorship for thousands of children. “Sports, arts, and being part of a community are essential for our kids,” Owens said. “If we come together, I know we can restore the joys of our program.”
The nonprofit’s leadership hopes that a coordinated effort from families, local businesses and civic leaders will generate the needed support to keep D.C. Scores’ mission alive for the 2,500 students it continues to serve.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
