Now in its sixth year, Detroit Drives Degrees’ Summer Student Transition and Engagement (STEP) program continues its impactful partnership with the Detroit College Access Network (DCAN). Supported by funding from Ballmer Group, the program combats “summer melt” by equipping high school seniors with the resources and guidance they need to navigate their post-high school paths. Whether students plan to attend college, pursue trade school, enter the workforce, join the military, or take a gap year, the program offers personalized support. From admissions assistance to addressing basic needs and easing the enrollment transition, Summer STEP is dedicated to helping students confidently take their next step toward the future.
Since beginning its partnership with DCAN in 2020, Detroit Drives Degrees has seen remarkable growth in Summer STEP. Between 2021 and 2024, the program supported an impressive 5,833 students. Currently, it is assisting 655 students, with aspirations to reach 1,000 participants by the end of Summer 2025. To ensure comprehensive support, DCAN and Detroit Drives Degrees have collectively hired 14 dedicated Summer STEP coaches to serve students across Detroit, Macomb County, Oakland County, and Wayne County (outside of Detroit).
Current K-12 partners and community partners include:
- Chandler Park Academy High School
- Detroit Promise
- Detroit Public Schools Community District
- Macomb Intermediate School District
- Oakland Schools
- Redford Union High School
- Wayne Regional Educational Service Agency (RESA)
On May 2, Ezella McPherson, Manager of College Access for Detroit Drives Degrees, attended Pershing High School’s annual College Decision Day in Detroit to promote Summer STEP. On May 8, she also delivered a presentation about Summer STEP at DCAN’s Lunch and Learn session titled “Thriving in a College Access Program: Summer STEP in the Detroit Region.”
For more information on the Summer STEP program, contact McPherson at emcpherson@detroitchamber.com or visit the Summer STEP website.