Nearly 130 DC Public Schools students who finished their diploma requirements over the summer walked across the stage Friday, Aug. 7, at George Washington University's Lisner Auditorium, joining the nearly 3,000 members of DCPS' Class of 2026.

The annual Rainbow Graduation honors students from across the district who completed coursework during the summer months or missed their school's spring ceremony.

Graduates came from 15 DCPS schools.

Interim Chancellor Dr. Kim Jackson, who was named to the role in June after more than a decade with the district, presided over the ceremony and officially accepted the graduating class on behalf of Mayor Muriel Bowser. Jackson began her DCPS career as principal of Seaton Elementary School in 2012 and was named Principal of the Year in 2015, earning the Rubenstein Award.

Deputy Chancellor Dr. Drewana Bey, who leads DCPS' social, emotional and academic development division, delivered the keynote address.

"Each year, Rainbow Graduation represents the incredible work ethic and persistence of our scholars," Jackson said in a DCPS statement. "This cohort of students overcame challenges in their educational journeys, and through their individual resolve and support from DCPS, they walked across the stage as proud high school graduates."

The Rainbow graduates now join a broader Class of 2026 headed in several directions. More than 2,000 will enroll in two- or four-year degree programs. Nearly 500 plan to pursue career education, apprenticeships or employment. About 50 have committed to serving in the United States Armed Forces.

The next major date on the DCPS calendar is Monday, Aug. 24, when students in kindergarten through 12th grade return for the 2026-27 school year. Pre-K students begin Thursday, Aug. 27.