Detroit Drives Degrees’ Summer Student Transition and Engagement (STEP) program, now in its sixth year, continues its collaboration with the Detroit College Access Network (DCAN). The initiative, funded by Ballmer Group, aims to address “summer melt” by providing high school seniors with resources and guidance for their post-high school plans. This includes support for college admissions, trade schools, workforce entry, military service, or gap years.
Since partnering with DCAN in 2020, the program has expanded significantly. Between 2021 and 2024, Summer STEP assisted 5,833 students. Currently supporting 655 students, the program hopes to reach 1,000 participants by the end of summer 2025. To achieve this goal, DCAN and Detroit Drives Degrees have hired 14 coaches to work with students in Detroit and surrounding counties.
The program’s K-12 partners include Chandler Park Academy High School and Detroit Public Schools Community District among others. Community partners feature organizations like Detroit Promise and Wayne Regional Educational Service Agency.
Ezella McPherson from Detroit Drives Degrees promoted Summer STEP at Pershing High School’s College Decision Day on May 2. She also presented at a DCAN Lunch and Learn session titled “Thriving in a College Access Program: Summer STEP in the Detroit Region” on May 8.
For further details about Summer STEP, contact Ezella McPherson via email at emcpherson@detroitchamber.com or visit the program’s website.
