At Bradbury Heights Elementary School, a first of its kind initiative in the region is empowering students to shape their futures and combat the racial wealth gap. The Brilliant Futures program, launched by the Greater Washington Community Foundation, is giving students the financial tools to dream bigger and invest in their potential from an early age.
Starting in kindergarten, each participating student will receive up to $1,000 annually, helping them build a foundation for their future endeavors. By the time they graduate from high school, these young scholars could accumulate at least $13,000, along with any investment earnings, to pursue their educational and professional dreams.
Whether they choose to further their education, start a business, or purchase a home, the program offers students a powerful head start in life.
“This program exemplifies the transformative power of student-centered initiatives,” said Superintendent Millard House II. “When we give our students a down payment on their future — whether for college, a small business, or a first home — we’re promoting racial and financial equity. We’re ensuring that the future they envision becomes achievable.”
The partnership between PGCPS and the Greater Washington Community Foundation makes this savings pilot program possible for all Bradbury Heights kindergarteners and aims to pave the way for future cohorts, with plans to fund one additional kindergarten class at the school.
“This is about expanding possibilities for our young people,” said Tonia Wellons, President and CEO of the Greater Washington Community Foundation. “If we can empower an entire generation of students, we are taking steps toward closing the racial wealth gap and building a more equitable future for all.”
