College Courses Coming to Every PGCPS High School by 2026–27

For years, dual enrollment has helped PGCPS students earn college credit while still in high school, but only some had the chance to take those classes without ever leaving their school building. 

That’s about to change.

Beginning in the 2026–27 school year, every PGCPS high school will offer tuition-free college courses on campus through an expansion of Dual in the Schools (DITS), a partnership with Prince George’s Community College (PGCC). Families will no longer have to navigate extra commutes or outside schedules. Students will earn both high school and college credit during the regular school day, right where they already learn.

“When our students can earn college credit right here, in our familiar classrooms, the benefits are transformational,” said Dr. Olivia Pearson, College Readiness Supervisor. “Research shows that dual enrolled students are more likely to enroll in college, persist, and ultimately earn a college degree. By embedding these courses within the regular day, we maximize access for all students, especially those who lack the transportation or resources to travel to a college campus after school. This model embodies the equity goals of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future legislation.”

What This Means for Families

• College credits at no cost. Students can save thousands in future tuition.
• A smoother path to higher education. Taking college-level classes early builds confidence and shortens the road to a degree.
• More access for more students. By moving DITS into every high school, PGCPS is closing gaps in opportunity and making rigorous coursework available to all.

DITS is currently offered in five high schools and will reach nine during the 2025-26 school year before expanding to all high schools during the 2026-27 school year. Courses focus on English, math, science, and social studies, taught by PGCPS educators who are credentialed as PGCC adjunct professors.

Crossland High School senior O’Marie Barnes, the 2025–26 Student Member of the State Board of Education, said the expansion removes barriers that many students know well, especially in a large county where getting to the PGCC campus can be difficult without reliable transportation.

“This helps answer the questions of how they’ll get there and how they’ll pay for it, while also allowing them to save money and time,” Barnes said.

County Executive Aisha Braveboy called the expansion another step toward a world-class education system.

“Prince George’s County students are our future and our first priority,” she said. “They deserve strategic investments into their future and academic advancement, which is what Dual in the Schools is.”

County Council Chair Edward Burroughs III emphasized the financial and academic benefits for families.

 “Offering students college courses free of charge will save families thousands of dollars and provide students a jump start on their higher education,” he said.

The expansion also opens new doors for educators. Teachers selected for DITS will serve as PGCC adjunct faculty while continuing in their current roles, gaining professional growth and shaping how students experience college-level learning. More than 100 teachers have expressed interest in teaching across all comprehensive high schools.

DITS supports the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future by strengthening high-quality teaching and expanding college and career readiness pathways.