Meetings

Our meetings are held once a month during the school year at a different Ward 4 DCPS school.  They are from 6pm to 7:30pm.  We often have a guest to answer the questions of our Ward 4 community. They are generally held on the 2nd Thursday of the month.  See meeting notes below, most recent at the top. Dates for the 2025-2026 school year are: August 14

September 11

October 9

November 13

December 11

January 8

February 12

March 12

April 9

May 14 and 

June 11

October 9, 2025 Ward 4 Education Alliance Meeting

Attending: Ida B Wells, Roosevelt, MacFarland, Brightwood, Takoma. ANC, DCPS CAT team, ANC – Dr. Antoine Kirby, DC Council Offices Mendelson and Lewis George, EmpowerEd

Action items:

·        Cathy: write a letter to DC Health to support staffing the health center at Coolidge campus.

·        Cathy: reach out to Coolidge and Roosevelt representatives to attend the November meeting to discuss safety concerns that surfaced in this meeting

·        Contact Georgetown University about de-escalation training resources for Coolidge and Roosevelt – perhaps many high schools.  They are not alone in seeing an uptick.

·        Cathy: consider inviting guests to address Safe Passage, response to fights  to the November meeting

·        Investigate the categories for excused absences and validation requirements in the Aspen excuse entry system for parents – difficulty in using it; how is that affecting the data?  Should there be consideration of fear and any option of virtual learning.  Oct. 15th Attendance Hearing sys

·        Stephanie: work with Jasmine Benob to address safety concerns for the Roosevelt-Coolidge football game on October 30th.

·         explore organizing a Know Your Rights training off-campus at a local church for multiple schools.

Safety and Violence Concerns

·        Student fights at local schools including but not limited to:  (Roosevelt, Coolidge, Duke Ellington, MacArthur)

·        Congregating MPD, Homeland Security, FBI, Border Patrol, National Guard at some points, this has not helped discourage or get to the source.  It was a lot of officers on Georgia Avenue at the Walmart for a non- ICE incident.

·        Safety issues around Petworth Metro Station and school areas

·        The source of the increase in adolescent fights seem to be typical but they have escalated despite their being no cell phones during the school day.  There have also sometimes been adults involved at the football games.  Relationships and trust are the tried and true source of understanding as well as advisory groups. 

·        Given the issues that led to the cancellation of the Coolidge homecoming, there is  hope that there will be work in preparation for the upcoming Roosevelt-Coolidge football game so it can be enjoyed.  Coolidge and Dunbar had cancelled games after an altercation arising from an injury to a Coolidge player in an illegal play during the game..

Educational and Operational Issues

·        Capacity challenges at Coolidge High School (exceeding 809 capacity, 50 juniors and seniors do not attend the Coolidge campus during the day but rather Trinity.  Coolidge had spots for 100 9th graders in the lottery.  Enrollment seems to be maintained in the 1000 range.  Continued conversation on this as new cafeteria is opened. 

·        Immigration-related attendance concerns- schools in wards 1 and 4 particularly elementary schools are experiencing increased ICE presence which is impacting attendance and enrollment.  Families have stepped up and are working hard to facilitate safe passage.  The constant detainments of long time residents, parents is having an affect as families experience the withdrawal of DC as a sanctuary space and the active presence of expanded law enforcement including MPD as an arm of immigration.

·        New Aspen attendance reporting system difficulties- please highlight at Council hearing next Wednesday, October 15th

Community Programs and Solutions

·        Restorative justice programs discussion- are these adequately funded, are they being used?

·        De-escalation training possibilities- Jen Woolard and Kristin Henning of Georgetown? contact

·        National Guard youth mentorship program exploration- many questions on this as they are employed and detailed to deal with immigration –trust is challenged.

·        Safe Passage program coordination- still concern with presence at Coolidge, Wells

·        Community watch efforts around schools- these are effective and can be expanded – they do allow for families to feel safer and the presence does allow for recording and asking for help if anyone is detained. 

School-Specific Updates

·        Wells:

o   Parent-teacher conference attendance (56% at Ida B. Wells) a successful day with time for student and also for direct chance for teacher and parent.  Will look at a virtual dimension for the spring to help with access. 

o   Family Garden Day a great success with Whittier fellowship

o   Hispanic Heritage Spirit Week

o   Same nurse as last year – hopes that the Coolidge School Based Health Center will re-open

·        MacFarland

o   Students feeling safe at school, this is supporting strong attendance

o   Climate in the building is good,

o   PTO is growing, surge of new families, grade level liaisons

o   Challenges in the neighborhood around 8th and Taylor, Shepherd, Petworth metro, ANC is conducting safety walks, working to support

·        Brightwood

o   Safe passage largest concern with walking bus ICE at every corner

o   Community members visible along all routes from early morning arrival and then at dismissal really matters.

·        Takoma

o   Has exceeded its enrollment projection

o   Has been spared the intense presence of ICE so far

o   Strong Wellness team, 2 Counselors, 2 social workers.

o   School is calm, Anti bullying, self regulation approach working

o   93% in seat attendance –

o   They have a full time  health tech

o   Hispanic Heritage Spelling Bee- great success

Community Engagement

·        Know Your Rights training planning- Takoma reaching out to join with others

·        Whittier swing space going up is impacting surrounding community with loss of play space- it is a substantial presence to house the full school.

·        Question for Wells which will have to hold all away games, can Coolidge support them for some home games? 

MEETING CHAT

:23:22 From Bijan Verlin (DC Council) to Everyone:

         Please do! It wouldn't be fair to blame the football team for what's going on the crowd.

17:26:44 From Robin Appleberry (she/her) to Everyone:

         Thank you so much for your engagement and for sharing the info!

17:27:50 From Julie to Everyone:

         DCIAA schedule says Roosevelt v Coolidge (at Coolidge HS field) on 10/30 at 6pm

17:28:44 From Julie to Everyone:

         Dunbar v Roosevelt (at Roosevelt Field) on 10/24 at 6pm

17:28:57 From Dominique Moore to Everyone:

         There are no community partners or groups connected to that area ?

17:35:25 From Bijan Verlin (DC Council) to Everyone:

         Homeland Security Investigations

17:36:02 From Dominique Moore to Everyone:

         Even as juveniles ?

17:41:10 From Julie to Everyone:

         Can we ask Jasmin Benab to join the meeting next month, to talk about Safe Passage presence?

17:42:17 From Julie to Everyone:

         And maybe Lindsay Appiah for C4DC or SHAPPE’s next meeting?

17:45:19 From Bijan Verlin (DC Council) to Everyone:

         Both good ideas!

17:50:07 From Cathy Reilly to Everyone:

         yes, I will reach out on this to both

17:50:12 From Bijan Verlin (DC Council) to Everyone:

         five restorative justice coordinators at Coolidge

17:50:38 From Bijan Verlin (DC Council) to Everyone:

         five at Roosevelt

17:50:52 From Bijan Verlin (DC Council) to Everyone:

         There are also all sorts of other support staff.

17:51:03 From Bijan Verlin (DC Council) to Everyone:

         https://dcpsbudget.com/datasets/?_schools=coolidge-hs%2Croosevelt-hs&_fiscal_years=2026&_budget_types=submitted

17:51:50 From Bijan Verlin (DC Council) to Everyone:

         To Principal Lyles point- advisory models are best practices for attendance and family engagement as well.

17:52:16 From Bijan Verlin (DC Council) to Everyone:

         They're rarer at the high school level than at the middle school level at DCPS

17:52:26 From ANC Commissioner Antoine Kirby to Everyone:

         Have to hop on another call. 202-681-1881 (cell) 4c02@anc.dc.gov happy to help where I can

18:04:44 From Robin Appleberry (she/her) to Everyone:

         I need to sign off.  Thank you to everyone for your engagement on all these important topics.

18:05:45 From William Lyles to Everyone:

         I have to hop off everyone. Thank you for holding space for this conversation. See you all next month! GN.

18:10:56 From Julie to Everyone:

         I’m happy to stay on and share my screen to show you the attendance process

18:11:01 From Bijan Verlin (DC Council) to Everyone:

         If you want to testify on absenteeism and truancy please sign up to testify by COB tomorrow! https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Hearings/hearings/946

Ward 4 Education Alliance Meeting 9-11-2025

Attending: Ida B Wells, MacFarland, Brightwood, Takoma, Roosevelt, DCPS CAP team, Truesdell, Dorothy Height, Powell, John Lewis, SBOE, DC Council Ward 4 and Chairman, Community members

School announcements:

Ida B Wells:
--Back to School Night on September 24th from 5-7pm with a virtual option.

-- Principal Lyles: Hold PTO meeting on September 30th from 5:30-6:30pm with a virtual option

--Principal Johnson and Principal Lyles: Announce their partnership initiative between Whittier and Wells schools in the coming weeks.

--98% fully enrolled, huge gains in ELA and Math on the CAPE test

Truesdale:

--Hold Back to School Night on September 16th.

--DPR: Renovate the grassy triangle outside the Drop Off Gate at Truesdale with a plaza.

-- Connect with schools in their feeder pattern through the LSATs

Brightwood Elementary:

--Host movie night next Friday at 7:30pm.

--Brightwood Elementary: Schedule PTA meeting for the end of September.

Whittier

--Conduct student data conferences in the next couple of weeks.

--Grandparents Day was a huge success

--Hold parent-teacher conferences on October 4th.

John Lewis Elementary School:

-- Continue supporting families with transportation needs through walking/driving pods.

Takoma Elementary School:

--Host Back to School Night on the 18th.

--Initiation of a House program to build community in the school

-- strong enrollment

MacFarland

-- school's academic growth, particularly in math, on the CAPE

-- and the positive energy of the new 6th-grade class

--strong re-enrollment of students and very low turnover of staff - stability

Powell

-- huge gains in CAPE scores – both for last year and over the last few years steady and significant

--Like many schools in our neighborhood – the personal cost of the federal policy on immigration- 15 children and 7 families affected  currently detained  or deported. 

Roosevelt

-- Roosevelt has seen growth in Cape proficiency as well with double digit gains in ELA and steady growth in math

Sharpe Health Proposal for Re-naming

See Power Point Above

The power point presentation by Ms. Joan Churchill is attached.  In it we learn that Melvin Sharpe is the Sharpe in the Bolling v Sharpe court case where Mr. Sharpe, the president of the DC Board of Education opposed integration of DC public schools. Bolling won that case, a companion case to Brown V Board of Education in 1954.

This is why the DC FACES working group recommended that his name be removed to ensure that individuals for whom schools are named for reflect contemporary DC Values.

With an introduction by Mr. Ed Rich whose father was the PTA president when what we know as Sharpe Health School was opened, his sister who is still here an in her 80’s was one of the students who benefitted from Ms. Elizabeth Goodman’s leadership. 

Judge Alexander Williams, who chairs the committee to rename the school, echoed Joan's sentiments and emphasized the significance of the renaming in light of the Bolling v. Sharpe case, which challenged school segregation in the District of Columbia.

The attached power point presented by Ms. Joan Churchill, Elizabeth Goodwin’s mother makes a strong case for the school to be renamed for her.  She campaigned for the Visiting Teacher Crops to serve homebound children and was a supervisor when it was part of the WPA program in 1939.  The Visiting Instructor Program became a line item in the DCPS budget in 1940 – something we might revisit and expand in this moment in time. 

Ms. Goodman was the principal of Health School/ VIC from 1952 to 1966.  It was housed in a 4 class -room building for white children – inadequate in every way.  She started a campaign with the PTA for a full- sized building to meet the needs of all DC children irrespective of race. 

The new Health School opened in the fall of 1958 – 13 classrooms with a bathroom in each classroom, an auditorium, lunch room, library and special rooms for physical. Occupational and speech therapy. In 1959 the school was named after C Melvin Sharpe – recently deceased DC Board of Education President. 

A new wing was added in 1970 that added 6 new classrooms and a swimming pool.  This wing was named after Elizabeth Goodwin. 

Th e conclusion of the presentation explains why Elizabeth Goodwin is fulfill the requirement to honor DC Values –

She devoted her career to identifying and establishing programs especially for children with special needs.  She was a resident of DC her entire adult life with strong ties to the community and it was her vision that inspired the construction of the building. 

The process for re-naming is done by the Council in consultation with DCPS after broad input representing the full community. 

Those present agreed that the Ward 4 Education Alliance would write a letter in support of this re-naming and forward that letter to the ANC’s in this area in hopes that they would follow up with resolutions also in support.  Cathy will check further with those not able to attend the meeting on this. 

At a future meeting we will engage with the DCPS Planning on the vision for this building going forward.  It has been used for swing space for schools undergoing modernization.  The building is in an extensive campus of DCPS schools, and its future complimenting what exists should be discussed with our community. 

Sharone with DCPS CAP team will also connect this with the Sousa historic discussion. 

Federal and local Budget

Discussion this week on Federal House of Representatives bill to change the SOAR (Scholarships for Opportunity and Results) Act.  The proposal voted on and passed by the House committee would change the current allocation of 60 million – 20m to DCPS, 20 to Charters and 20 to support vouchers to 30 million for vouchers, and 10 million to DCPS, and maintaining the 20m to charter schools.  This bill has not been voted on by the full House or by the Senate.  The advocacy to fight it along with the 13 other bills that affect home rule has to continue.  The fear is that these bills will be attached as riders and be connected to crime bills that Democrats from states in the House and the Senate have voted for in the past, abandoning the District of Columbia and our quest for the same level of home rule states assume. 

As the city confronts the challenges of this time, there has not been consideration of a supplemental budget.  The Executive has not forwarded anything to the Council.

This does not prevent us from putting forth suggestions for what is needed and asking our government to wrestle with them and work to identify resources in some way to support us.

If the Hill passes another CR, will we once again be treated as a federal agency and held to FY24 levels of spending?

 The news on this is encouraging, Rep Comer has said it was an error and that this will not be the case going forward.  We are hoping this holds – Council reps

Immigration Enforcement and School Attendance

The meeting focused on the challenges faced by the community due to ongoing immigration enforcement and its impact on our school communities as well as on enrollment and attendance.   

The group discussed potential solutions, including virtual learning options and home visits, while emphasizing the need for DCPS to address attendance issues without further penalizing families.  If you cannot attend school safely, labeling a student truant with the accompanying actions is not appropriate.  This is a challenge as we learned during COVID.  The struggle to get students back to the classroom predated the current crisis however for our families here confronting the threats they are presented with, we need help. 

Transportation to school is one large issue. Would it be possible to expand the DC School Connect program here prioritizing elementary schools.  Or could the Dept of Hired Vehicles budget which was identified for help with a pilot truancy program be looked at. 

We are concerned with our ability to sustain our volunteer efforts on this over time, not in response to a crisis but acknowledging that this is here with no end in sight now. 

Schools have initiated Walking School buses – described in this article highlighting the work Vanessa Rubio has done.  However, this is incredibly labor intensive and volunteer dependent.  And it is heartbreaking to see the abandonment of the city’s promise of sanctuary status and the price for the immigrant families that are an integral and vital part of our community here.  

The conversation on the re-naming of SHARPE and the presence of those who lived through our history of white schools and black schools and the highlighting of differences and identifying people as “other” brought home a history we hoped to have left behind.  What is happening now in our communities is as wrong, hurtful and damaging.  We are coming together as individuals to respond as well as we can.  By the delay in responding with strength as a government that protects its residents, we are risking their loss and also a fundamental loss of our trust. We will continue to push on this. 

Next meeting is October 9th on zoom

Meeting Chat

--Kristin Sinclair Yesterday, 6:13 PM
Love the new playground!
--David Churchill Yesterday, 6:20 PM
Washington Post walking bus article link https://www.washingtonpost.com/immigration/2025/09/11/immigrants-school-kids-trump-dc/
Joan Churchill Yesterday, 6:21 PM
David , could you call Judge Williams to help him connect to sound, 301) 509-3371
Julie Lawson Yesterday, 6:22 PM
Julie Lawson here, member of Wells LSAT and Whittier modernization SIT. Off camera while I watch my son’s soccer game at McKinley
Sharona Robinson, DCPS Yesterday, 6:27 PM
Good evening, everyone. Sharing my contact information now as I know everyone will not stay for the entire meeting.
Sharona N. Robinson
Manager, Community Affairs and Engagement
 Office of External Affairs
District of Columbia Public Schools
1200 First Street, NE
Washington, DC  20002
O 202.671.4550
C 202.423.5091
F 202.535.2703
E sharona.robinson@k12.dc.gov  
W https://bit.ly/dcpscommunity-action-team
Twitter @DCPS_Community
 
Schedule a Meeting https://bit.ly/bookwithSharona

Math - Lucas Cooke - MacFarland Yesterday, 6:29 PM
Evening All - apologies for my lateness - little miscue with kids activities.
T. Michelle Colson’s iPhone Yesterday, 6:30 PM
Good evening, everyone. I’m driving and couldn’t come off of mute quick enough to speak.
Happy to make it out to schools this week. Will continue to do so.
SBOE is still working on graduation requirements and making sure the requirement includes best options for special education and students experiencing homelessness.
Nancy Smith Yesterday, 6:48 PM
So thrilled to learn this history. The school absolutely should be named for your mother.
Stephanie Arias Yesterday, 6:51 PM (Edited)
Good evening everyone! Stephanie Arias
Community Action Team Specialist Wards 1 & 4
Office of External Affairs
District of Columbia Public Schools stephanie.arias@k12.dc.gov
Dr. Powell Yesterday, 6:53 PM (Edited)
Good Evening, I’m one of the Assistant Principal’s at Roosevelt. So glad to hear from so many connected to Roosevelt’s rich history.
Dr. Powell Yesterday, 6:54 PM
Cathy, I’m driving home at the moment
morgan hall (powell) Yesterday, 6:54 PM
Yay for all the Powell kids (my daughter included) at MacFarland!
T. Michelle Colson’s iPhone Yesterday, 6:54 PM
Wonderful presentation. Great D. C. History lesson that should be shared with our current students.
Nicholas (Nico) Pcholkin Yesterday, 6:57 PM
I am a graduate of Deal as well :)
morgan hall (powell) Yesterday, 6:59 PM
Hi! I’m one of the APs at Powell. Can I give a quick update on Powell?
Math - Lucas Cooke - MacFarland Yesterday, 7:01 PM
Love Ms. Lewand's video club!
Bijan Verlin Yesterday, 7:02 PM
And a I’m a ward 4 resident! Always please feel free to reach out at bverlin@dccouncil.gov.
Dr. Powell Yesterday, 7:03 PM
Roosevelt has seen growth in Cape proficiency as well with double digit gains in ELA and steady growth in math
Deborah Yesterday, 7:12 PM
Would the support of alumni associations from the various high schools be of help?
Nicholas (Nico) Pcholkin Yesterday, 7:13 PM
Yes thank you - was a wonderful presentation
Nancy Smith Yesterday, 7:17 PM
Question: If the Hill passes another CR, will we once again be treated as a federal agency and held to FY24 levels of spending?
Julie Lawson Yesterday, 7:19 PM
I definitely know families who wish their kids (especially middle and high school) could attend virtually
Sharona Robinson, DCPS Yesterday, 7:21 PM
The law would have to change as it relates to what is considered a lawful absence
And the only DCPS school that offers virtual programming is Garnet-Patterson STAY
Julie Lawson Yesterday, 7:23 PM
I do want to give credit to DDOT and DCPS for pushing out Kids Ride Free cards. It used to be a much messier process.
morgan hall (powell) Yesterday, 7:26 PM
The cards stop working once the new one is issued, so important to distribute promptly
morgan hall (powell) Yesterday, 7:31 PM
Thank you!
Bijan Verlin Yesterday, 7:31 PM
Thanks, Cathy.
Will Perkins Yesterday, 7:31 PM
love y'all -- sending you all my support from RVA
Sharona Robinson, DCPS Yesterday, 7:32 PM
Thank you for another great meeting!

Ward 4 Education Alliance August 14, 2025

Attending: Ida B Wells, John Lewis, Roosevelt, Truesdell, Empower Ed, Dorothy Height, DC Council, Coolidge, Powell, EmpowerEd, DBSBOE,. DCPS Community Action Team, Community Members.

Ward 4 Ed Alliance Meeting

Cathy introduced the purpose of the Ed Alliance, explaining that it has been meeting monthly for at least 15 years to advocate for DCPS schools in Ward 4, particularly focusing on  sharing information about what is working across schools, with an emphasis on collaboration and mutual support.

Rapid Response Teams for Schools

The meeting focused on organizing rapid response teams to support students, particularly in the context of potential ICE or Federal law enforcement presence in schools. Scott from Empower Ed explained the structure of the Defend DC Public Education Coalition, including their school captain network and information-sharing efforts. Sign up at Defend DC to find out about School captains, news, resources  https://defenddceducation.com/

Participants discussed how these teams would function, with sharing experiences from a Ward 5 school where trained volunteers would witness and record any ICE enforcement while maintaining confidentiality. The group also explored ways to create welcoming back-to-school environments and share resources across different school communities in Ward 4.

School Safety and Communication Concerns

Bijan confirmed that DCPS is taking the start of school seriously but acknowledged uncertainty about specific security measures. Many expressed frustration with the lack of clear messaging that could easily be communicated to parents. 

There is also a need for better communication systems allowing school leaders to share verified information quickly with families. The group also addressed concerns about school resource officers and emphasized the importance of clear messaging that federal agents cannot enter school buildings without proper authorization.

Student Safety and Rights Discussion

The group discussed concerns about student safety and rights, particularly regarding interactions with law enforcement. Jennifer, a psychologist, offered to provide resources on de-escalation training for both students and law enforcement. Cathy emphasized the need to empower students while maintaining their dignity, and highlighted positive aspects of DC's schools. Ronald clarified that ICE agents cannot enter schools without proper authorization, and expressed concern about recent reports of potential cooperation between ICE and DC schools. The group agreed on the importance of standing together to protect students' rights and maintain a positive image of DC's schools.

District Schools Update and Renovations

McFarland  reported a 5% increase in enrollment and positive staff stability. Truesdell discussed the completion of Truesdale's renovation and upcoming events at the school. Julie shared updates about leadership changes at Ida B. Wells and the start of modernization work at Whittier. The group also discussed a potential renaming of Sharp Health. Powell's playground renovation is in process and and upcoming events Popsicles at the Park at Upshur St Park – Coolidge and Roosevelt both expressed  excitement to start the school year.

 The conversation ended with a reminder that the next meeting would be held on the second Thursday of the month from 6 to 7:30 PM on Zoom.

• Ward 4 community members: Organize adult presence on streets for the first day of school to help students feel safe.

• Community members: Push the Mayor to make a clear public statement that law enforcement cannot enter schools without proper warrants.

• Find and share resources about adolescents understanding their rights and de-escalation techniques

• Sharona: Share information about Truesdale's ribbon cutting ceremony once details are finalized.

• Team members: Email Team Michelle at teammichelle.coulson.dc.gov with thoughts on high school graduation requirements

Announcements

• CM Lewis George Town Hall Friday at 6:30pm

• Frazier: Mrs. O’Leary’s Books - Deliver books to schools before the beginning of school year; principals should contact him at ohman9@aol.com.

• All attendees: Sign up at Defend DC to find out about School captains, news, resources  https://defenddceducation.com/

• Group members: Register for the DCPS virtual back-to-school info session on August 20th.  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dcps-back-to-school-information-session-tickets-1556552423199?aff=oddtdtcreator

• Powell "Popsicles at the Park" event at Upshur Park on Saturday from 10-12 while Powell playground is under renovation.

• Community members: Consider organizing back-to-school functions to create a welcoming environment for students returning to school.

• School Uniform Swap Uniform swap on August 23: https://dclibrary.libnet.info/event/14147698

CHAT

You 5:26 PM
 Diverse Family Relationships Lab at George Washington University.  They are seeking participants for 5 focus groups.  See more information and the flier below if you can share with your networks and constituents:
Youth Voices for Statehood, submitted work may include but is not limited to singing, acting /skit, spoken word, art, painting, drawing- age 11 to 18 due by August 31 - email statehoodteam@lwvdc.org

You 5:43 PM
https://migrant-resources-dmv.my.canva.site/english
https://www.dcmigrantmutualaid.org/hotline

Sharona Robinson, DCPS 6:04 PM
Good evening, everyone

Sharona Robinson, DCPS 6:10 PM
Sharona N. Robinson
Manager, Community Affairs and Engagement
 
Office of External Affairs
District of Columbia Public Schools
1200 First Street, NE
Washington, DC  20002
O 202.671.4550
C 202.423.5091
F 202.535.2703
E sharona.robinson@k12.dc.gov  
W https://bit.ly/dcpscommunity-action-team
Twitter @DCPS_Community
  Schedule a Meeting https://bit.ly/bookwithSharona

Sharona Robinson, DCPS 6:15 PM
Please don’t forget to register for the DCPS Back To School Info Session on August 20 - https://x.com/dcpublicschools/status/1952773332710887532?s=61&t=aBd6gGNuMyoBGl4Hkt15Rg

Sharona Robinson, DCPS 6:15 PM
http://bit.ly/DCPSbtsinfo2025

Scott Goldstein 6:26 PM
https://defenddceducation.com/
Sign up here

Math - Lucas Cooke - MacFarland 6:27 PM
Anyone who would like is welcome to join me on the first day out front to welcome kids back!

Alvina Yeh, she/her | DHES PTO 6:28 PM
There’s a “Project Petworth” WhatsApp group that started a few months back and most of the active folks aren’t parents with school age kids so they might be interested in volunteering

Scott Goldstein 6:29 PM
So people have the ICE emergency hotline info

From Member: printouts available at as many school events as possible where families would be present “on behalf of the PTO. red cards near the three school entrances for anyone to take, again “from the PTO”

T. Michelle Colson’s iPhone 6:42 PM
Just the sight of military outside of a school can be unsettling to students and staff. We have to consider mental and physical safety.

scott goldstein 6:43 PM
Yes… also over the past couple days MPD has been with ICE (HSI) at their checkpoints and checking documentation status at random stops. That will be a big impact on Ward 4 families feeling safe to go to school

scott goldstein 6:44 PM
There is a shared drive for defend dc public education

You 6:44 PM
yes, I will post on the website also and spread as well as what Defend DC

Jennifer Woolard (she/hers) 6:48 PM
And happy to talk about ways to help document youths’ experiences and perspectives and worries about this situation.

T. Michelle Colson’s iPhone 6:54 PM
What about Identification? While empowering students, we should also stress the importance of carrying identification. Especially for our HS students.

T. Michelle Colson’s iPhone 6:56 PM
And make obtaining id for our students who might be experiencing homelessness easier.

Alvina Yeh, she/her | DHES PTO 6:57 PM
If anything there is more organizing and community than ever

Bijan Verlin (DC Council) 6:59 PM
@Cathy Reilly I have something I wanted to mention about Sharpe Health- no rush.

Inez Steigerwald 7:01 PM
I saved this to the Defend DC Education immigration resources google folder, but I’ll share it here as well: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1xbfbJoLAXfg2K1uye-QunxMtHLzBLWxePwp3xkpt4jI/edit?usp=sharing

Julie Lawson 7:01 PM
Uniform swap on August 23: https://dclibrary.libnet.info/event/14147698

Sharona Robinson, DCPS 7:08 PM
http://bit.ly/DCPSbtsinfo2025
Sharona N. Robinson
Manager, Community Affairs and Engagement
 
Office of External Affairs
District of Columbia Public Schools
1200 First Street, NE
Washington, DC  20002
O 202.671.4550
C 202.423.5091
F 202.535.2703
E sharona.robinson@k12.dc.gov  
W https://bit.ly/dcpscommunity-action-team
Twitter @DCPS_Community
  Schedule a Meeting https://bit.ly/bookwithSharona

Alvina Yeh, she/her | DHES PTO 7:09 PM
Thank you for a great recap Cathy

Bijan Verlin (DC Council) 7:10 PM
please reach out at Bverlin@dccouncil.gov if you have something you want to share or have any questions.

scott goldstein 7:09 PM
Again for people who want to sign up for defend dc education or to be a school captain- defenddceducation.com

Alvina Yeh, she/her | DHES PTO 7:10 PM
I highly recommend this
EmpowerED has made comms more seamless

scott goldstein 7:12 PM
👍

Jennifer Woolard (she/hers) 7:10 PM
Good to be back with you.

Migrant Mutual Aid https://www.dcmigrantmutualaid.org/hotline

Downloadable flyers and palm cards:

Download English and Spanish versions here

202-335-1183*

(save this number)

Ward 4Ed Alliance Notes for June 12, 2025

Attending: DME, Clara Botstein, Chief of Staff and Marissa Goldstein, MacFarland, Whittier, Ida B Wells, Sela, EL Haynes, Council

Outstanding questions before presentation

In Ward 4 – clarification on Tennis Center at Carter Barron, heated pool, funding and planning going forward on this- CM Janeese Lewis George will learn more about this.  Funding for planning is in the FY25 supplemental.

Green Card – current teachers will be covered but the program to add more is suspended. 

Community and Connected schools support is reduced in this budget.  Schools need to pick up the coordinator in their budgets for the connected schools.  DCPS is maintaining the program with a main coordinator.  Community Schools are under discussion as part of the OSSE budget. 

Power Point from DME noted above.  

The Education budget is 20% of the city budget counting federal funds, if we are looking at just local funds it is 30%.  This is 2.8 billion dollars all together.

3 ways the DME look at their budget in terms of priorities

·       Learning Acceleration- structured literacy

·       Youth Safety

·       Pathways to College and Career

School Connect remains funded – largely for wards 7 and 8.  Ward 4 would like to see this expanded here especially for the students travelling across North Capital Street from LaSalle Backus. 

Truancy Pilot – highlights case management expanding the pilot from 5 to 10 schools- Truancy Reduction Pilot Report for anyone interested in early findings from this program: RC26-0059 - Truancy Reduction Pilot Program Mid-Year Report

The DME is supporting continued funding of the Education through Employment Pathways project and the data that is being collected which can inform better alignment within UDC and other universities with employment that is in demand and can lead to solid pay and advancement.  See here and here.

Question on possible reduction of mental health support-

--all schools will continue to receive school behavioral health resources and supports. Funds supporting the salary of SBHP clinicians will not be impacted

This survey on Family and Community Engagement will be open until June 30th – Please circulate and fill it out.  https://publicinput.com/dcpstitle1_2025

School News

MacFarland Middle School News

Global Ed Student of the Year

Math Competition Google – last year tied for first, this year MacFarland placed first

MacFarland 6th Grade team- most growth to proficiency in the city

Final PTA meeting – stable and growing PTA,

8th Grade Awards Ceremony- well attended with a lot to celebrate

Multiple 6th Grade trips,

Almost 100% retention of staff – people and relationships help us respond to attendance and to build a strong, welcoming, supportive school climate

Ida B Wells:

Graduation took place tonight, June 12th

Ida B Wells has students attending Coolidge, Coolidge Early College, Banneker, McKinley, St. John’s and Ellington next year among other schools. 

Testing is finished. There was a successful Field day for 6th and 7th graders

EL Haynes graduation was tonight also

Discussion on Truancy and the Post article:

At the middle and elementary level, nonattendance is often a sign of challenges at home, there have been many reasons, taking care of younger siblings, trouble with transportation, general lack of support.  For new comers especially, it is fear.  If one student or parent is detained by ICE, the ripple effect across many families is extensive.  Half or more of our students have come from other countries and can be here either legally, in the process of getting legal status or recently arrived. 

The best way to address a student’s absence has been – that the student and family knows someone cares, someone knows the they are not there, staff are happy to see them, they are valued.  There are budgetary constraints to meeting this as well as we would all like.  A school can have little to no staff turnover from year to year but still have staff out on maternity leave or sick leave.  4 staff members were out on maternity leave at one school last year – that is 3 months.  These temporary but longer- term vacancies are difficult to fill.  Everyone is stretched thin. 

Mutual Aid is helpful in meeting some of the needs especially of our immigrant families. 

Our next meeting is scheduled for July 10th- we will let people know if there is interest in a summer meeting.  Thank you.  

CHAT:
Marisa Goldstein (she/her) Yesterday, 6:16 PM
Home
That's the link to MOST-DC, our OST portal!
Office of Education Through Employment Pathways (ETEP) | dme - lots of good resources here including a brand new brief sharing career outcomes from DCPS and PCS graduates

Marisa Goldstein (she/her) Yesterday, 6:25 PM
DC School Connect Working Group Report | dme

Marisa Goldstein (she/her) Yesterday, 6:42 PM
Truancy Reduction Pilot Report for anyone interested in early findings from this program: RC26-0059 - Truancy Reduction Pilot Program Mid-Year Report

Clara Botstein Yesterday, 6:51 PM
https://dme.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/dme/page_content/attachments/UDC%20Research%20Brief%20Jan%202025.pdf

@Reb Even with the SBHP reduction, all schools will continue to receive school behavioral health resources and supports. Funds supporting the salary of SBHP clinicians will not be impacted

Cynthia Prather Yesterday, 7:00 PM

Sorry, Ms. Robinson, could you center your backdrop?

Sharona Robinson, DCPS Yesterday, 7:01 PM

I’ll drop my info in the chat for you @Cynthia Prather

https://x.com/dcpublicschools/status/1933296001625788869?s=46

Cynthia Prather Yesterday, 7:01 PM

Congratulations!!

Sharona Robinson, DCPS Yesterday, 7:01 PM

This is GREAT NEWS @lucas.cooke 🙌🏽

Sharona Robinson, DCPS Yesterday, 7:02 PM

Sharona N. Robinson

Manager, Community Affairs and Engagement

Office of External Affairs 

District of Columbia Public Schools

1200 First Street, NE

Washington, DC  20002

O 202.671.4550

C 202.423.5091

F 202.535.2703

E sharona.robinson@k12.dc.gov   

W https://bit.ly/dcpscommunity-action-team

Twitter @DCPS_Community

Schedule a Meeting https://bit.ly/bookwithSharona

Cynthia Prather Yesterday, 7:03 PM

Wow!  Special congratulations of the staff retention!

Clara Botstein Yesterday, 7:03 PM

 Great news from our local MS!

Omawali Stewart Yesterday, 7:04 PM

Haynes Middle graduation is this evening as well:)

Omawali Stewart Yesterday, 7:16 PM

When is the next meeting?

Omawali.stewart@gmail.com

Cynthia Prather Yesterday, 7:17 PM

Happy Graduation!

Omawali Stewart Yesterday, 7:18 PM

Salute to all of you. Thank you! I’ll look forward to a calendar invite for the future meetings!

🙏🙏🙏

Jahna Reed Yesterday, 7:19 PM

Sela PCS had our field day today too. :)

Omawali Stewart Yesterday, 7:19 PM

I have to run and get mom some supper. Looking forward to the invite for next meeting!

Cynthia Prather Yesterday, 7:20 PM

Congratulations!

Great news!

Sharona Robinson, DCPS Yesterday, 7:20 PM

Let me know how I can support you @William Lyles

Reb Yesterday, 7:23 PM

So exciting to see MacFarland succeeding. 100% agree kids show for people 

Meetings will be virtual on ZOOM

August 8, 2024

September 12, 2024 

October 10, 2024

November 14, 2024

December 12, 2024

January 9, 2025

February 13, 2025

March 13 2025

April 10, 2025 

May 8, 2025

June 12, 2025

Ward 4 Ed Alliance Meeting Notes for May 15, 2025

Attending: DME, DCPS, SBOE, Council Chair Mendelson’s office, CM Lewis George’s office, Ida B Wells, MacFarland, Coolidge, Roosevelt, Language Access Division DCPS

School News:

MacFarland: Celebration of Strong Honor Roll – 150 students, Nominations for the PTO for 2025-2026, Soccer teams playing, school wide CAPE coming to a close and the 8th grade dance graduation coming up.   

Special congratulations to Kaitlin Nelson of MacFarland who won the citywide competition Do the Write Thing sponsored by the Attorney General. 

MacFarland also received recognition for LEAD 180

And they are very pleased to have received a DDOT Assessment visit to look at traffic calming and safety around the school including things like flashing lights, raised crosswalks.

And 0 staff turnover this year – a stable, exemplary, strong staff all  coming back. 

Ida B Wells: Join them Friday, May 16 from 5-7 pm for our Arts Showcase! 2 girls and 2 boys soccer teams planning Brookland and EL Haynes

School Wide Enrichment Model, PTO succession meeting on May 27th. End of Year Awards Assembly - Wonderful supported Teacher Appreciation Week with donuts, cookies and notes.  Special Acknowledgement of Julie Lawson who has an 8th grader and will be leaving as a parent but staying connected after 3 years of extraordinary support to Wells. DC Scores Coach of the Year Jennifer Schroderer

Whittier SIT team will have one week to review concept drawings, get community input and give final recommendations. 

Roosevelt’s Art teacher Ms Maame A-Bawuah is Visual Arts Teacher of the Year.  Roosevelt is hosting a Parent partner Teacher Award Night on May 22nd.   And May 23rd is the Taste of Petworth Casino and an auction of Art Work – all welcome.

HVAC work will continue to the 1st and 2nd floors this summer. Summer school will be located on the 3rd floor.  Along with Administration.

BUDGET:  It is in the hands of the Chief Financial Officer now and will be at the Council on May 24th with hearings to start on May 27th. 

Concerns – So far, the most drastic cuts to Medicaid have not been enacted where the District would have seen a 20% drop in the federal payment.  However, there are possible cuts to the direct services in the schools affecting Individual Education Plans for both special needs and multilingual learners.  Our concern here is for the city to have a plan to avoid cuts to the neediest communities.  This includes cuts to SNAP and Medicaid.  We are hoping there will be a Plan B so we hope for the best but are prepared for the worst.  Human services are a large part of the DC Budget so mitigating the potential losses is challenging but essential. 

Education is fortunate to know that it will get a 2.7% raise in the FY26 budget. Other agencies that affect all residents may see cuts to staff and programs. 

24 Days remaining in the school year, and staff at the schools remains strong and committed. –

Comment from a parent to the city’s leadership: While this is a difficult and challenging moment in our city’s history, the lack of engagement on the best way to navigate possible cuts has been very disappointing.  Our city is rich in residents who are thoughtful and knowledgeable. It has been a lost opportunity.  We all matter.  Please carry this message back…

CONCERNS for NEWCOMERS and our IMMIGRANT COMMUNITY

These stories are not in the newspapers or really on line.  DC has been a place that champions its role as a protector of all of its residents.  That is not happening now- now there is a deafening silence.

Children as young as PreK3 are not able to be at their homes because their parents have been picked up by ICE.  There are ICE agents and others that have been deputized.  They don’t always identify themselves.  DC is definitely being targeted right now.  Places of worship, restaurants and outside of schools.

At the L’Enfant Metro station recently 2 middle school students probably 13 years old were detained, forced to sit on a concrete sidewalk for an hour and grilled with questions.  They had recently been in a training that had role playing on Know Your Rights.  They were able to calmly state “I know my rights”, I choose to remain silent.”  These officers were in full gear and did not identify themselves.  Had the students run or lied, they would have been arrested.  They were released and went to school. 

We have worked to have the students see security as allies.  These officers are not allies.  These incidents are having a profound effect on attendance with it down up to 30% among multi lingual learners.  Seniors are not completing their courses so they can graduate.  Grandmothers are being detained.  The impact on students being willing to come to school and on them being able to learn is enormous. 

The city could be in solidarity, KYR information could be steamed and in big signs on the buses.  Instead, what we have is a gorilla approach – underground.  It is sending a message to these children and families though, the silence from those in charge is chilling and contributing to fear. This fear translates into families not going to school, to the grocery store or to the doctor…

The families and individuals most profoundly affected will not be testifying or calling to complain or express their worry.

The impacts could be addressed by an emergency fund that could be accessed for rent and food.  The funding for the DC Health Care Alliance is vital and then the assurance of safety as families and individuals access the medical services. 

DCPS LANGUAGE ACQUISITION PROGRAM has materials

The New Request for Application (RFA) Release Date is TUESDAY, May 28, 2024 A. Background Information The Executive Office of Mayor Muriel Bowser and The Mayor’s Office on Latino Affairs (MOLA) are soliciting grant applications for its FY 2025 (FY25) Immigrant Justice Legal Services (IJLS) Grant from qualified Community-Based Organizations (CBOs), Private Organizations, Associations, and Law Firms serving the District of Columbia’s community. The grant funds are intended to support the provision of legal services to the immigrant population, including mobilizing pro-bono talent or skilled immigration attorneys and legal professionals to provide immigrant justice legal services, as well as language access services to other grantees to effectuate the legal services provided. The FY25 IJLS Grant offers a one-time grant for organizations applying for the first-time, and a multi-year grant available only to organizations that have been an IJLS grantee for at least two years.  Here is the full description.

They have Know Your Rights information in 9 languages and are available to do trainings upon request and as they are available.  Raquel.Ortiz@k12.dc.gov and Rosanna.Demammos@k12.dc.gov

Our next meeting is on zoom at 6pm on June 12.  The budget will be in hand and the DME’s TJ Sell – Budget will join us.  Thank you everyone

Meeting Chat

Good evening! Wilkinson here from Roosevelt

Bijan Verlin (DC Council) Yesterday, 6:11 PM
Testament to your leadership!

Robin Appleberry (she/her) Yesterday, 6:12 PM
I’ll be on and off of camera tonight but I’m here and listening.  Also happy to add a tiny bit about Coolidge.

Bijan Verlin (DC Council) Yesterday, 6:25 PM
We expect we’ll receive it May 27th.
Hearings should start that week, but the schedule isn’t set yet.

Raquel Ortiz Yesterday, 6:48 PM
I can’t open my Microphone
Going to rejoin

T.  Michelle Colson Yesterday, 6:48 PM
Good to be here with you all. Jumping off to attend the MPD Juvenile Investigation Response Unit meeting.

Simone Wilkinson (she/her) Yesterday, 6:59 PM
We have a handful of seniors who are in jeopardy of not graduating because of fear of ICE. We are working with those families

Principal Lyles Yesterday, 7:00 PM
Thank you Rosanna, Erika, and Raquel for all of your support! You all are gems and Wells appreciates you!!!!!

Robin Appleberry (she/her) Yesterday, 7:03 PM
Thank you, thank you, thank you, Ms DeMammos and Ms Ortiz

Robin Appleberry (she/her) Yesterday, 7:06 PM
100% true for other schools — army waiting

Rosanna DeMammos DCPS Yesterday, 7:10 PM
Families are having to move as they are afraid that their home may be a target for ICE.

Rosanna DeMammos DCPS Yesterday, 7:12 PM
Rosanna.demammos@k12.dc.gov

Bijan Verlin (DC Council) Yesterday, 7:15 PM
Agreed. Always bears repeating.

Raquel Ortiz Yesterday, 7:15 PM
Raquel.ortiz@k12.dc.gov 202-365-6391.  Thanks all!
ELSAP!!

Simone Wilkinson (she/her) Yesterday, 7:23 PM
@Rosanna DeMammos DCPS  does your office have those cards still? Our school could use more
Thanks!

TJ Sell (DME) Yesterday, 7:29 PM timothy.sell@dc.gov

Julie Lawson Yesterday, 7:29 PM
The comparison to Black families training their sons was one I hadn’t considered. Very powerful

Bijan Verlin (DC Council) Yesterday, 7:29 PM
Really helpful, thanks Rosanna.

Simone Wilkinson (she/her) Yesterday, 7:30 PM
Thank you all!

Rosanna DeMammos DCPS Yesterday, 7:30 PM
Thanks everyone.

Bijan Verlin (DC Council) Yesterday, 7:30 PM
Thanks for having us! Always please feel free to reach out at bverlin@dccouncil.gov

Ward 4 Education Alliance Notes

April 10, 2025

Ward 4 Education Alliance Notes April 10, 2025

Attending: MacFarland, Ida B Wells, Powell, Banneker, DC Council, DCPS CAPS team rep, SBOE, Community

School News: Powell will hold elections for Powell Padres and the LSAT in early May and will have a bigger Board.  Banneker is going well for a 9th grader graduate of MacFarland.   Budget process went well for LSAT. 

MacFarland – Great Panorama results, improvement in every area.  Fantastic Art Music evening, Howard supported. There is terrific stability with staff with all but possibly one returning.  Families and neighbors attended.

Ida B Wells: Sense of Belonging and Panorama scores are the highest they have ever had, confirming that they are on the right track.  DC CAPE is going well.  The co-teacher model is complete and the satisfaction results continue to confirm it as a good model. 

Being on an LSAT was instructive – there are some positions that are very difficult to hire for including behavior techs (low salary), different bi-lingual positions as well. 

SBOE: Concerns with recent actions on unaccompanied youth and the “no right to legal counsel” coming out of Florida and what that means for children here.  In addition movement toward a requirement that new comers or migrants would have to self- disclose their legal status.

The May meeting will focus on children who are identified as not having a permanent home. 

From those present:

We have federal employees and spouses how are employed by a federal government agency.  As we talk about both the local and federal budget, lots of DCPS families and communities are impacted. 

BUDGET

While the FY26 budget is completed, it is handed to the CFO with the FY25 supplemental budget. The FY25 Supplemental will be impacted by the budget cuts should they become necessary from the FY24 budget that is being held up by the House after the passage of the Continuing Resolution that freezes federal agency budgets at 24 levels.  The House has not yet passed the DC local budget Act which would free DC to spend its own money.  The hope is that this will be resolved but there now has to be plans to do the cuts if it is not. 

Those present agreed that with this administration in the White House and Capitol, the DC Government has to be prepared and not assume resolution.  It is and has been very difficult. 

Message to the Council – on safety and concerns with greater police presence is ensure that there are well supervised and quality programs for all young people particularly those at the secondary level.  They will be at greater risk. 

Further thoughts: Mutual Aid, the Courts and the Attorney General have been able to be more nimble in responding.  New administrations often have a series of half-lives.   You can get more done in the first 6 months than in the first year and so on.  Your ability to be productive often decreases with time.  This can mean in some areas delay is an appropriate strategy. 

There are many who are currently disenfranchised from our formal political process.  It is important to empower people and to have some hope. Keeping community, continuing to publish the anecdotes and continuing to demonstrate when possible, appeal to individuals is important. 

Further thoughts at school level: Keep communication lines open, some schools have been able to create a task force with individuals that can stay closer to families and then facilitate connections when appropriate or possible.  At other schools the staff is filling that role.

Many times a fix is not what is important – the willingness to listen and understand can be powerful in and of itself.  Next meeting is May 8th on zoom at 6pm. 

CHAT

That’s great news!

T.  Michelle Colson Apr 10, 6:26 PM
That's Great Data!!!!

Sharona Robinson, DCPS Apr 10, 6:29 PM
Same
I’m hearing Congress is under the impression all of the money they want to pull is federal money. Sounds like there’s a lot of education that has to happen with them as well.

Bijan Verlin Apr 10, 6:32 PM
https://s3.documentcloud.org/documents/25879984/040425-dmb-to-ocr-re-request-for-title-vi-certification.pdf

Andy Rowe Apr 10, 6:35 PM
Like a bilingual psychologist the hiring unicorn I learned from LSAT.

T.  Michelle Colson Apr 10, 6:39 PM
That's Awesome!!!!

T.  Michelle Colson Apr 10, 6:52 PM
https://apnews.com/article/trump-legal-aid-unaccompanied-children-immigration-court-127a69ce69573d2d16c72a74dacef3ab
https://www.floridapolicy.org/posts/fast-facts-hb-1225-and-sb-918-would-further-erode-child-labor-protections-in-florida
https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/judge-allows-requirement-us-illegally-register-move-forward-120695687
Can we look to history? What have others done?

Sharona Robinson, DCPS Apr 10, 7:00 PM
Derek Hyra would be great to connect with as well. He’s written a few books as well and is a professor at AU.

Sharona Robinson, DCPS Apr 10, 7:01 PM
We’re ALWAYS in the Petri dish!

T.  Michelle Colson Apr 10, 7:02 PM
@Sharona Robinson, DCPS we work with kids, we're always in the Petri dish.

T.  Michelle Colson Apr 10, 7:04 PM
That's helpful @Andy Rowe

Sharona Robinson, DCPS Apr 10, 7:11 PM
I think I missed that @Cathy Reilly so I’ll be looking out for it. You know I love things like that!

Andy Rowe Apr 10, 7:13 PM
Wait til you got 10,000 unemployed parents looking for something to do

Andy Rowe Apr 10, 7:18 PM
Appreciate all you guys that work for us

Bijan Verlin Apr 10, 7:20 PM
Take care all

Ward 4 Education Alliance Notes

March 13, 2025

Ward 4 Education Alliance March 13, 2025 Meeting Notes

Attending: Ida B Wells, MacFarland, Roosevelt, DCPS Community Action, DC Council, Whittier, Coolidge, Sela, Powell, Council Chair Mendelson, DME

Announcements:

MacFarland Spring Art Show on April 9th, Arabic Dance Performance

Job Fair on March 22nd

Whittier

Spring Cabaret April 22nd

Sneak Peek of next Grade Level April 4th

Council Chair Mendelson on Congress and City Budget:  We spent some time discussing the Continuing Resolution (CR) being voted on in the Senate after passing the House of Representatives.  The DC Council and some members of Congress are working on different avenues - possibly the language in the CR could be interpreted as half, so close to 500million. A long shot Plan B – (since this meeting the Senate passed the CR as well as a separate bill that would allow DC to keep its funds and not revert to FY 24- this has to be passed by the House).

If the separate bill does not get brought up for a vote or does not pass and DC is forced to make drastic cuts they will not be required immediately. The Executive and mayor would be considering furloughs, layoffs, no 4th payment to charters as possibilities.  With the passage of the CR and if the bill passed by the Senate does not pass the House, DC cannot spend its revenue, it however stays in reserve.  

The outcome of whether or not the CR passes does not affect the FY26 budget.  That budget is tight in its own right however.  The city's revenue dropped by 300m. below the current year's revenues. This was an actual drop, not just less profit.  In order to balance the FY26 budget, it will require a cut of 700m. The budget is further challenged by increases in costs everywhere including health care.  With our revenue down, it will affect capital borrowing which is limited to 12% of revenues.  

With schools already getting a 2.7% increase, the executive might be looking at OSSE - the pay equity for early childhood educators is 70milllion.  Teacher wellness. Connected Schools, Out of school time may also be affected.  The Mayor will submit the budget on April 2nd.  HEre is the budget hearing schedule.  First vote on the budget will be May 28th.  April 11th is the DCPS residents budget hearing, and the government is on April 26th.  There is a hearing on the bill to limit student cell phone use on April 25th and on requiring training for charter Board of Trustee members on April 26th

Other possible cuts that may severely impact DC residents are to Medicaid.  The District now has a special ratio of 70% Federal 30% local.  Most states have 50/50.  If the District were to go down to 50/50, it would be a 700,000 to 800,000 dollar cut.  This would be devastating.

In terms of Schools First, DCPS has been in closer compliance.  The submitted school budgets are part of the April executive submission of the full budget, and more will be clear then. 

The Chairman noted that DCPS security costs could be better maintained.  There is also concern with the Special Education both with the Children’s Law Center testimony on the costs of going to litigation to solve basic issues as well as with the investigation just announced by the Dept of Education.

The numbers of Migrant and New Comer students coming to DC has dropped.  The Welcome center usually sees an increase in January and February, it is down by half. 

Department of General Services (DGS) – the Performance Oversight pre-hearing questions wer expansive 132 pages with 90 attachments.  It is worth a look, with information on Brightwood, Truesdell, Roosevelt, MacFarland, Barnard and Whittier for sure.

From the Deputy Mayor for Education – look for information on After School programming

The MOST portal launched

The MOST-DC portal, available now, brings together programs from DC Public Schools (DCPS), the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), and the Deputy Mayor for Education’s (DME) Office of Out of School Time Grants and Youth Outcomes (OST Office). Over time, additional agencies and programs will be added. Starting in May 2025, registration for DCPS Out of School Time programs for the 2025-2026 school year will also take place through the portal. MOST-DC is integrated with the DCPS school enrollment system, allowing the system to validate student eligibility automatically. The portal allows families to search for OST programs by home address, school, cost, ward, and grade level, making it easier to find options that fit their needs.

“MOST-DC portal is a convenient one-stop-shop for parents to access all things OST,” said Deputy Mayor for Education Paul Kihn. “By making it easy for families to access the District's extensive menu of OST options all in one place, we will increase awareness and access to OST programming for children, youth, and families across the District, and in doing so help our children grow into the leaders of the future.” 

DC families are also invited to the 3rd annual Summer in the City resource fair on Saturday, March 29 at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The fair will connect families with a wide range of summer programs and activities available through the Learn24 network, nonprofit organizations, and community-based organizations. For additional details and to register for Summer in the City, visit SITC2025.eventbrite.com.  

Next Ward 4 Education Alliance meeting will be on April 10th

Meeting Chat; Julie Lawson 6:08 PM
Wells Spring Arts Showcase is May 16
rosa vigil joined as a guest

Julie Lawson 6:08 PM
And SEM Showcase is May 30

Sharona Robinson, DCPS 6:11 PM
It was a great day!

Sharona Robinson, DCPS 6:13 PM
The shirts were 🔥@Tiffany Johnson

Robin Appleberry (she/her) 6:14 PM
I apologize in advance that I’ll have to drop off early at some point. I do want to share that my kids and I were in the Senate today with so many others. It was very powerful. More advocacy needed unfortunately.

Jen Schiller - Whittier PTO 6:16 PM
Whittier PTO upcoming events: Meeting 3/20, Disco Bingo 3/21, and Chipotle fundraiser on 3/25

Julie Lawson 6:22 PM
If the CR passes, do we think there can be another legislative fix in a short timeframe?
And if it can’t be fixed, and we end up with the $1B surplus, are we still required to put much of that into the Housing Protection Trust Fund?

Cynthia Prather 6:24 PM
With the cuts to the Dept of Ed, will there be cuts to Title 1 programs?

Hannah Kozik (DC Council) 6:26 PM
https://dccouncil.gov/2024-2025-performance-oversight-fy-2026-budget-schedules/

Robin Appleberry (she/her) 6:30 PM
I think we should close schools one day a week and take them to senate offices to be educated there. We’ve been asking them all day how they plan to educate, feed, and care for our kids if this passes.

Robin Appleberry (she/her) 6:33 PM
Huge thanks to Chairman for being here!! Thanks to all for the discussion and all the hard work.

Cynthia Prather 6:39 PM
Agreed!  Thanks so much!

Zakiya Lord (Whittier) 6:56 PM
Thank you again for this time and detail. Sincerely

Josh Bork - Sela PCS 6:57 PM
Thank you for the opportunity to participate tonight, and for the candid discussion.

Angela Anderson 7:00 PM
Whittier is fortunate because we have no cuts. Thank you

Julie Lawson 7:10 PM
Raquel, can you talk about what the experience is at the Welcome Center these days?
It’s ok if you can't

Julie Lawson 7:20 PM
We appreciate you, Cathy!

Hannah Kozik (DC Council) 7:20 PM
Thanks, Cathy!

DeAndra Brooks 7:20 PM
Thank you Cathy!

Raquel Ortiz, DCPS Welcome Center (she/her) 7:21 PM
Thank you Cathy and everyone!

February 13, 2025

Attending: Wells, MacFarland, Powell, Roosevelt, Brightwood, Takoma, SBOE, Whittier, John Lewis, DCPS Community Action Team, DC Council Member Janeese Lewis George

News from Schools:

Wells – Over 100 8th graders applied to the application schools and to Coolidge Early College.  The Annual Day of Service – MLK day was a great success with students volunteering with partners in Ward 4.  Working on mid- year testing. 

John Lewis has had two successful open houses, will have an Arts Night next Thursday and tryouts for Little Mermaid have begun

Brightwood is having a fundraiser at Chic Fillet on February 21st from 4 to 6 – Please Come

Powell- After school activities are a priority in the budget, the community is supporting Know Your Rights as well as a civil society support network

Whittier has an Open House on February 22nd at 9:30am and a Black History Cookout on Feb. 27th at 4pm.  Parent Game night cancelled because of snow but will be rescheduled.

MacFarland: Some news great literacy night last Wednesday and a great day of ACCESS testing Tuesday.  We have some great midyear data so far and are excited about our Black History Month celebrations.  We are also planning our end of year student empowerment summit.

CONGRATULATIONS to all of the Ward 4 DCPS schools that had winners this year at the Standing Ovation! 

CM Lewis George – Facilities (DGS) and Department of Parks and Recreation

In Roundtable hearing focus was on Air Quality HVAC, Whittier and Roosevelt (longer term solution), mold at Whittier and how to fairly hold DGS accountable. 

Swing Space – Here is the letter sent to DCPS in August.  Currently the swing space modulars spaces are still planned for Whittier behind Coolidge.  They will then transition to ease the overcrowding at Coolidge and Wells.  LaSalle Backus is scheduled for Sharpe Health not these modulars.  Ward 4 Ed Alliance will consult with Lasalle Backus on this. 

The Chairman is working on a swing space plan, after sending the letter in August and continuing to hear from school communities. 

The plan is to sustain what Ward 4 has in Safe Passage areas around our schools.
Please sign up for Oversight Hearings – Feb. 27th DCPS, March

Federal Ramifications for DC:

Council has one full time person assigned John Kilvington -  jkilvington@dccouncil.gov they are considering expanding given the need for extra support.

Concerns for Schools

A warrant is needed for any areas that are not open to the public.  Schools and places of worship are no longer protected spaces.  This has meant there is concern at drop off and pick up.  The schools would like more direct communication from DCPS. 

-The OAG guidance has been released and is endorsed.  The Council and Mayor are meeting often, working to get on the same page with communication and strategy at the same time as navigating what is a challenging budget year even without the federal issues. 

Here is the Defend DC Education Updated Resource Sheet (attached)

Council Member Lewis George brings red cards to every gathering, here is the support number

There are many lanes in a civil society- we need to be strengthening all of them.  Families are afraid to go the grocery store, all children should have clear pick up instructions with alternates.  Every school should have a support network that can be activated.  These are things that we can do. 

Budget: Costs are going up.  There are some Parent Teacher organizations that are providing support.  There are conversations regarding SchoolsFirst.  While the Chairman is dedicated to Schools First, there is hope that with DCPS there will be a way to be true to the spirit and avoid losses and gains over the summer that bring about a domino effect that undermines stability.

https://dccouncil.gov/event/performance-oversight-hearing-committee-of-the-whole-36/

The proposed cuts to Medicare are substantial for DC.  Attached is the worksheet from CM Henderson that shows what reducing the federal contribution from 70% to 50% would mean.  The means of taking this cut would be to reduce eligibility for groups. Potentially this could mean 1 billion less for the District in serving its residents who need the most. 

Next meeting is March 13th and Council Chair Phil Mendelson will be our guest. 

Meeting Chat

Mrs. O'Leary's Books4Friends
1318 Farragut St. 2022362184 oman9@aol.com

AP Alston  Feb 13, 6:04 PM
Greetings, this is AP Alston from Roosevelt

Math - Lucas Cooke - MacFarland Feb 13, 6:06 PM
Evening All - I'm at gymnastics practice so can't talk.  Some news - we had a great literacy night last Wednesday and a great day of ACCESS testing Tuesday.  We have some great midyear data so far and are excited about our Black History Month celebrations.  We are also planning our end of year student empowerment summit.

Principal Lyles Feb 13, 6:14 PM
Julie planned a thoughtful game night for families Wednesday but we had to cancel bc of the snow! @Julie Lawson can't wait to reschedule!!!

Julie Lawson Feb 13, 6:18 PM
Sheridan Street FTW!!

Tiffany Johnson Feb 13, 6:22 PM
Thank you

Julie Lawson Feb 13, 6:29 PM
LaSalle Backus is coming up behind Whittier in the modernization schedule. They are even further from Sharpe. While we need to think about overflow space for Wells and Coolidge, is LaSalle going to be able to use the modular campus too?

Jen Schiller Feb 13, 6:31 PM
My apologies for earlier, my name is Jen Schiller, I’m the Whittier PTO co-president

Sharona Robinson, DCPS Feb 13, 6:33 PM
A lot of school leaders have been sharing the resources that have been pulled together by Defend DC.

Math - Lucas Cooke - MacFarland Feb 13, 6:35 PM
I wish I wasn't at gymnastics practice. : )

Sharona Robinson, DCPS Feb 13, 6:39 PM
Remember budgets aren’t just about enrollment. It’s also about the demographic makeup of the school’s enrollment.

Math - Lucas Cooke - MacFarland Feb 13, 6:47 PM
Going to try to switch to my phone for the drive home, if I can't get on I hope to see many of you soon.

Dr. Colson Feb 13, 6:52 PM
Has E. Holmes Norton shared or released any information? I haven't seen anything?

Sebastian Weinmann (DC Council) Feb 13, 6:56 PM
CM Lewis George Letter to DCPS re Swing Spaces

Julie Lawson Feb 13, 6:57 PM
Mental health for students AND staff

Sharona Robinson, DCPS Feb 13, 6:59 PM
Even if the budget was the same, because of the rising costs of positions the buying power has decreased (again).

Sebastian Weinmann (DC Council) Feb 13, 7:06 PM
OAG Guidance: https://oag.dc.gov/release/oag-guidance-immigration-enforcement-dc-schools
available in English, Spanish, French, Korean, Chinese, and Vietnamese

Angela Anderson Feb 13, 7:14 PM
Curious… because we know this is a very long document, curious if there is a bulleted “Know Your Rights” document we could post. Perhaps we could also create a letter to distribute to our families. Agreed! Our voice matters.

Thank you to everyone for your guidance and transparency on this call.

Sharona Robinson, DCPS Feb 13, 7:15 PM
The Language Acquisition Division is also providing red cards. Please reach out to Raquel Ortiz if you’re interested in getting some.

Sharona Robinson, DCPS Feb 13, 7:21 PM
Please share this resource sheet @Math - Lucas Cooke - MacFarland @Principal Lyles @Nikeysha Jackson @Tiffany Johnson @AP Alston

Sharona Robinson, DCPS Feb 13, 7:22 PM
Some people have even posted the sheet in the school so families can take a pic during pick up or drop off

Sebastian Weinmann (DC Council) Feb 13, 7:25 PM
DGS Public Witness Hearing: Friday, 2/21, 9:30am.

Register to testify or submit testimony: https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Hearings/hearings/680

Registration closes at 5pm on 2/19.

DGS’ pre-hearing responses also posted. Lots of information and data on school facilities issues, capital projects, and processes.

If you have any questions for DGS, send them to me at sweinmann@dccouncil.gov

A Rowe Feb 13, 7:26 PM
Giving that out without making anybody “endorse” it sounds right

Angela Anderson Feb 13, 7:26 PM
Thank you @CM Janeese Lewis George for your service. Thank you @Cathy Reilly for this platform.

Tiffany Johnson Feb 13, 7:27 PM
Thank you so much!!

A Rowe Feb 13, 7:27 PM
YES THANK YOU

Jen Schiller Feb 13, 7:27 PM
Thank you all so much!

Dr. Colson Feb 13, 7:27 PM
Thank you!

Ward 4 Education Alliance Meeting January 9, 2025

Attending: Whittier, Ida B Wells, MacFarland, Roosevelt, Truesdell, Powell, Brightwood, Coolidge, SBOE, DCPS Welcome Center and DCPS Community Action Team, Mrs. O’Leary’s Books 4Friends

Ward 4 Education Alliance started in 2013 as a way to bring us together and advocate for getting our schools modernized and having middle schools after the closure of MacFarland – which the 2013-14 Boundary committee recommended to be re-opened with input. WE also pushed hard for a middle school feeder for Coolidge as part of that modernization.  We pushed for greater capacity but it is a win that both schools now exist and both high schools exist and are modernized. 

The Ward 4 Education Alliance brings together Ward 4 parents, students, educators, and community members to share information and advocate for continued improvement in the quality of education in Ward 4 DCPS schools.  We meet monthly during the school year on zoom. Email ward4edalliance@gmail.com for link.

Ward 4 is home to two DCPS high schools and the 13 DCPS schools that feed into them. Shepherd and Lafayette, located in Ward 4 feed into Deal and Jackson Reed but are always welcome.  Children from Bancroft, Bruce Monroe, Cleveland and Tyler have the right to feed into the MacFarland and Roosevelt dual language programs.

DC Council Committee Structure: CM Lewis George will have the DGS and Dept of Recreation, they no longer have CFSA.  Sebastian Weinman is here from the Council Members office and happy to work with us to follow up on concerns. 

Welcome: Ward 4 State Board of Education Representative 2025 Dr. T. Michelle Colson.  Is looking forward to working with us as a proud Ward 4 resident who attended Shephard, Deal, Ellington and graduated from Coolidge HS. 

School News

Ida B Wells – 2 Awardees at Standing Ovation – AP Hutchins and Science teacher Jennifer Schroeder.  Open Houses start on January 24th, the Winter Arts Showcase will be on February 19

Whittier: Award for the Outstanding Educator of the Year - Kerel Thompson from Whittier – the Whittier musical High School Musical will be performed at the Coolidge Auditorium Wed and Thursday ( 15th and 16th – Spelling Bee on the 11th at 1pm.  Mid- year assessments are in progress. 

Whittier has 462 students, the old building this year has been even more challenged.  Mold has been addressed but the parent community understandably wants the investment and move to swing space sped up. 

Truesdell is looking forward to moving back to their location in a fully modernized lovely new building.  The space at SHARPE has been largely accommodating and worked out well.  There are not the large spaces for gathering that exist in our DCPS elementary schools.  The bus mostly worked out but there were occasional miscommunications and misses – for example the after care bus did not come thinking it was a snow day.

MacFarland - Outstanding School Staff of the Year Award for Staff

·         Liana Castro, Bilingual Counselor, MacFarland Middle School, Ward 4  Congratulations

They have had decent attendance and MacFarland had a fabulous Winter Concert with families and people from the neighborhood.  It was a high moment and a lot to celebrate.  They will have their second annual Literacy Night on February 6th. 

Roosevelt will hold graduation on June 13th at American University. The HVAC, now heating system remains very challenged with students reporting cold hallways on all floors as well as the art area, auditorium and gym.  Even with portable heaters and AC units in classrooms this issue at Roosevelt since its opening in the new building has been an acute issue.  – looking again to the budget hearings and oversight for a better solution. 

There are 12 schools in DCPS with widespread outages.

Brightwood – is having a performance on January 24th, it is  fundraiser with tickets selling for 15 and 20 dollars. 

Powell, Coolidge and other schools reported things were going well overall – any announcements that come in we will post on the website. 

Raquel Ortiz from the Welcome Center located in MacFarland walked us through some of the things in place for New Comer students and families – New Comers is the preferred language – replacing immigrant. 

 It is important that everyone know their Rights and how to protect them on the Metro,  in cars, wherever they are.  It s also important that all of us know how to create safe spaces and as defenders know what we can do. 

There are many vulnerable populations including the LGBQT community and the homeless – Mutual Aid has resources.  Deportations are not new, they have happened over this administration too.  The concern is with them rising based on the experience of 2017-to 2020. 

Robin Appleberry of Integrated Schools shared this resource: https://integratedschools.org/chapter/washington-dc/

These are from Raquel and Sharona and are also posted on our website:  

Resources: for new comers and for our whole communities discussed at 1-9-2025 Ward 4 Education Alliance Meeting

This is what is in place with the current legal framework.  If this changes, we will revise. 

2017 Guidance from Karl Racine still in force: https://dcpcsb.org/sites/default/files/KarlRacineAG_0.pdf
U.S. Department of Education letter includes links to many resources currently available: https://www.ed.gov/laws-and-policy/key-policy-letters/dear-colleague-letter-resources-ensuring-equal-access-education-immigrant-students

United We Dream-- Migra Watch - What to Do and How to Report ICE in your community. https://unitedwedream.org/resources/how-u-s-citizens-can-protect-the-immigrant-community-from-the-deportation-force/

Ayuda provides legal, social, and language services to help low-income immigrants in our neighborhoods access justice and transform their lives. For over 50 years, we have served more than 150,000 low-income immigrants throughout Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia.

KIND We at KIND have intentionally developed a comprehensive approach within our work to address the multi-faceted needs of unaccompanied migrant children once they are in the U.S. Not only do children come to us in need of legal services, but also often with deep traumas caused by the violence and fear experienced during their forced migration

Print the RED CARDS - in Nine Languages- All people in the United States, regardless of immigration status, have certain rights and protections under the U.S. Constitution. The ILRC’s Red Cards help people assert their rights and defend themselves in many situations, such as when ICE agents go to a home.
https://www.ilrc.org/red-cards-tarjetas-rojas

ACTION NETWORK- Defend DC- https://actionnetwork.org/forms/get-involved-to-defend-dc

UCLA ed support and research https://smhp.psych.ucla.edu/pdfdocs/practitioner(1-8-25).pdf

Raquel Ortiz, DCPS Welcome Center (she/her) 7:18 PM
Raquel Ortiz
Director, Welcome Center
Language Acquisition Division
Office of Teaching and Learning
Social Emotional Academic Development
District of Columbia Public Schools
 
4400 Iowa Ave. NW Washington, DC. 20011
O 202.868.6509
C 202.365.6391
E  raquel.ortiz@k12.dc.gov

Sharona Robinson, DCPS 7:20 PM
Sharona N. Robinson
Manager, Community Affairs and Engagement
 Office of External Affairs
District of Columbia Public Schools
1200 First Street, NE
Washington, DC  20002
O 202.671.4550  C 202.423.5091  F 202.535.2703
E sharona.robinson@k12.dc.gov  
W https://bit.ly/dcpscommunity-action-team
Twitter @DCPS_Community
Facebook http://bit.ly/Wards7and8
  Schedule Meeting https://bit.ly/bookwithSharona

Meeting Chat:

CHAT

17:45:56 From Cathy Reilly to Everyone:

             resource: https://smhp.psych.ucla.edu/pdfdocs/practitioner(1-8-25).pdf

17:46:28 From Cathy Reilly to Everyone:

             https://dcpcsb.org/sites/default/files/KarlRacineAG_0.pdf

18:06:24 From Raquel Ortiz, DCPS Welcome Center (she/her) to Everyone:

             HIGH SCHOOL JULIE!!!

18:06:45 From Julie Lawson to Everyone:

             Reacted to "HIGH SCHOOL JULIE!!!" with 🫣

18:08:24 From Andy Rowe to Everyone:

             Reacted to "HIGH SCHOOL JULIE!..." with 😆

18:13:07 From Tiffany Johnson to Everyone:

             👏

18:13:47 From Julie Lawson to Everyone:

             I know someone else in this meeting who was recognized as Assistant Principal at Standing Ovation…

18:14:08 From T. Michelle Colson to Everyone:

             Reacted to "I know someone else ..." with 💓

18:14:11 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS to Everyone:

             Reacted to "I know someone else …" with ❤️

18:14:47 From Tiffany Johnson to Everyone:

             Yes

18:21:04 From Principal Lyles to Everyone:

             Reacted to "I know someone else ..." with ❤️

18:23:58 From Robin Appleberry (she/her) to Everyone:

             Here’s a link to join the Integrated Schools DC meeting tonight: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88491555562?pwd=6becbRN3qE1ElCdBUsaclDzmdg2tjv.1

18:24:21 From T. Michelle Colson to Everyone:

             Reacted to "Here’s a link to joi..." with 👍🏿

18:24:51 From Robin Appleberry (she/her) to Everyone:

             And here you can sign up to get more info about our group:  https://integratedschools.org/chapter/washington-dc/

18:25:42 From Principal Lyles to Everyone:

             You are too kind Principal Johnson. Thank you!

18:27:06 From Julie Lawson to Everyone:

             Reacted to "You are too kind Pri..." with 💓

18:27:51 From Julie Lawson to Everyone:

             Sheridan Street FTW!

18:28:00 From Principal Lyles to Everyone:

             Reacted to "Sheridan Street FTW!" with ❤️

18:28:12 From Julie Lawson to Everyone:

             Also the Bold Schools award

18:28:18 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS to Everyone:

             Reacted to "Also the Bold School…" with ‼️

18:28:23 From Principal Lyles to Everyone:

             Reacted to "Also the Bold School..." with ❤️

18:28:27 From Raquel Ortiz, DCPS Welcome Center (she/her) to Everyone:

             Reacted to "Also the Bold School..." with ❤️

18:28:37 From Raquel Ortiz, DCPS Welcome Center (she/her) to Everyone:

             Reacted to "Sheridan Street FTW!" with ❤️

18:29:22 From Julie Lawson to Everyone:

             My first time testifying to Council about Whittier was about mold

18:30:07 From Raquel Ortiz, DCPS Welcome Center (she/her) to Everyone:

             OK Sheridan Street!! Collecting all the  🏆

18:30:23 From T. Michelle Colson to Everyone:

             Reacted to "OK Sheridan Street!!..." with 💓

18:30:34 From Principal Lyles to Everyone:

             Reacted to "OK Sheridan Street!!..." with ❤️

18:31:45 From Frazier OLeary to Everyone:

             What about the bricks that are falling?

18:35:04 From Tiffany Johnson to Everyone:

             Thank you

18:35:17 From Frazier OLeary to Everyone:

             If the Whittier community had not raised its voice, we wouldn't have a swing space. Now we need to push even more.

18:35:54 From lucas.cooke to Everyone:

             Evening All - I'm just on for a minute - I am supervising our last home bball game and have two of my daughters tonight also.  Apologies!

18:38:16 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS to Everyone:

             I’m sorry to hear that @Nick Wertsch

18:40:11 From Nick Wertsch to Everyone:

             Replying to "I’m sorry to hear th…"

             That’s the way it goes sometimes - luckily we had a great aftercare staff/team that jumped right into troubleshooting mode, I think everyone got taken care of. Seems like it was a mistake if the bus contractor

18:40:45 From Robin Appleberry (she/her) to Everyone:

             Amen to that!  It was truly amazing!!

18:43:25 From Frazier OLeary to Everyone:

             The gym had no heat last night and the games were postponed.

18:46:30 From Raquel Ortiz, DCPS Welcome Center (she/her) to Everyone:

             The guidance from 2016/17 can be found here https://dcps.dc.gov/publication/immigration-guidance

18:48:11 From Andy Rowe to Everyone:

             Reacted to "The guidance from ..." with 👍

18:57:46 From Robin Appleberry (she/her) to Everyone:

             I’ll jump off now.  Thank you, Raquel, for this information and I look forward to hearing more. And thank you to all for your continuing work.

19:01:42 From Nick Wertsch to Everyone:

             Just a heads up, I have to jump off in a min to put kids to bed

19:03:11 From Cathy Reilly to Everyone:

             thank you Nick, is there anything that you would like to add?

19:03:55 From Cathy Reilly to Everyone:

             thank you for being here

19:08:18 From Raquel Ortiz, DCPS Welcome Center (she/her) to Everyone:

             https://www.ed.gov/laws-and-policy/key-policy-letters/dear-colleague-letter-resources-ensuring-equal-access-education-immigrant-students

19:08:29 From lucas.cooke to Everyone:

             Have to hop off - apologies - I should be fully online by the next meeting again.  Thanks!

19:08:49 From Dr. Colson, SBOE Represtative to Everyone:

             Reacted to "https://www.ed.gov/l..." with 👍🏿

19:08:54 From Nick Wertsch to Everyone:

             Nothing more from my end, very much appreciate the current discussion and will check back with folks later for anything I might miss!

19:12:02 From Dr. Colson, SBOE Represtative to Everyone:

             Great resources @Raquel Ortiz, DCPS Welcome Center (she/her)

19:12:50 From Raquel Ortiz, DCPS Welcome Center (she/her) to Everyone:

             Sharona has cloning powers

19:13:10 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS to Everyone:

             Reacted to "Sharona has cloning …" with 😂

19:13:11 From Julie Lawson to Everyone:

             Reacted to "Sharona has cloning ..." with 😆

19:13:54 From Dr. Colson, SBOE Represtative to Everyone:

             Our agenda is set for the next SBOE meeting. But I will keep this in mind when the board discuss topics for our next meeting.

19:14:10 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS to Everyone:

             Replying to "Sharona has cloning …"

             I wish

19:17:59 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS to Everyone:

             We appreciate your advocacy on this @Cathy Reilly

             As @Raquel Ortiz, DCPS Welcome Center (she/her) mentioned we’ve been thinking and talking about this A LOT!

19:18:36 From Raquel Ortiz, DCPS Welcome Center (she/her) to Everyone:

             Raquel Ortiz

             Director, Welcome Center

             Language Acquisition Division

             Office of Teaching and Learning

             Social Emotional Academic Development

             District of Columbia Public Schools

             4400 Iowa Ave. NWWashington, DC. 20011

             O 202.868.6509

             C 202.365.6391

             E  raquel.ortiz@k12.dc.gov

19:20:01 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS to Everyone:

             Sharona N. Robinson

             Manager, Community Affairs and Engagement

             Office of External Affairs 

             District of Columbia Public Schools

             1200 First Street, NE

             Washington, DC  20002

             O 202.671.4550

             C 202.423.5091

F 202.535.2703

             E sharona.robinson@k12.dc.gov   

             W https://bit.ly/dcpscommunity-action-team

             Twitter @DCPS_Community

             Facebook http://bit.ly/Wards7and8

             Schedule a Meeting https://bit.ly/bookwithSharona

19:20:42 From Raquel Ortiz, DCPS Welcome Center (she/her) to Everyone:

             Print the RED CARDS - in Nine Languages

19:20:45 From Raquel Ortiz, DCPS Welcome Center (she/her) to Everyone:

             https://www.ilrc.org/red-cards-tarjetas-rojas

19:21:18 From Julie Lawson to Everyone:

             WTU contract received Council approval. Hooray for teachers! I hope the school budgets accommodate it

19:23:35 From Raquel Ortiz, DCPS Welcome Center (she/her) to Everyone:

             Migra Watch - What to Do and How to Report ICE in your community. https://unitedwedream.org/resources/how-u-s-citizens-can-protect-the-immigrant-community-from-the-deportation-force/

19:26:26 From Regina to Everyone:

             Reacted to "WTU contract receive..." with ❤️

19:26:29 From Andy Rowe to Everyone:

             Our Banneker students, as I hear it, are fans of their phone policy.

19:26:58 From Julie Lawson to Everyone:

             I love the Wells cell policy (and was the same when we were at Whittier)

19:27:40 From Raquel Ortiz, DCPS Welcome Center (she/her) to Everyone:

             im_knowyourrights_020817.pdf

19:28:02 From Julie Lawson to Everyone:

             Thank you, Raquel!

19:28:13 From Julie Lawson to Everyone:

             I’m going to be reaching out to you in my work capacity as well

19:28:34 From Raquel Ortiz, DCPS Welcome Center (she/her) to Everyone:

             Reacted to "Thank you, Raquel!" with 💗

19:29:01 From Raquel Ortiz, DCPS Welcome Center (she/her) to Everyone:

             Together we can and we will fight!

19:29:27 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS to Everyone:

             Reacted to "Together we can and …" with ‼️

19:29:31 From Raquel Ortiz, DCPS Welcome Center (she/her) to Everyone:

             Have a good night!

Ward 4 Education Alliance December 12, 2024 Meeting notes

Attending: SBOE, MacFarland, Whittier, Ida B Wells, Roosevelt, Barnard, CM Lewis George’s office

Report out on School Announcements and Building Issues

Ida B Wells: Homecoming Week Dec 16th with Faculty- Student basketball game, dance, Alumni Panel

Heat is there but uneven, some rooms too hot.  There are some exterior doors that remain off line due to issues.   Ida is still waiting for key fob for the elevator.  It was to be part of the summer blitz

Whittier: Fantastic to be identified as a Boldest School – in SPED groups.  Whittier is rated #6 out of 110.  Whittier is holding its Winter Wonderland and hoping that each of the 462 children at the school can go home with a toy. 

Building assessment is tough- with the continuing issues particularly the mold, it makes sense to move out of the building earlier.  The mold is prompting talk of lawsuits.  It is very stressful for everyone at this point.  It shows the issues for the schools at the end of the line for modernizations. 

Roosevelt – Winter sports have started. Students are doing great.  There continue to be HVAC issues with space heaters now in most classrooms and challenges in larger spaces like the auditorium.  The need for space cooers and heaters has created the need for additional electricity in the building. At start of school year – assumption was that a solution had been found. 

MacFarland Basketball season has started – 3rd win on the books.  Open Houses going well with good attendance.  Barnard shadow day went well.  Cluster meeting was held at MacFarland, Roosevelt Culinary students provided the meal and it was very well received.  Truesdell cheerleaders performed. 

MacFarland Winter Arts Dec 18th at 6pm This year’s showcase will feature performances by our brand-new band, drumline, pianists, house band, and other exceptional student musicians. Direction by Mr. Kristopher Ring and Dr. Kevin Guyton. 

Building: Gym heat is now fixed.  Heat not working well in one third of the building.  Largest issue is a stank odor that has not been identified or remedied.

Barnard had a successful book fair and on Thursday a Winter Music Show

Issues going into 2025

Better staffing of nurses- SBOE passed a resolution on this – Council continues to wrestle with issues underlying the short staffing

Discussion of Testing, near universal sense that it has tipped into too much, taking time from instruction that does not align with benefits of the info gained to support students. 

Largest Issue with Time and with pressure of end of year summative formerly PARCC and not CAPE.  Those present note that it is not a fair way to measure what a school is doing to provide a well -rounded education, the growth measures can be some improvement but are still not adequate.  It is 3 weeks in the spring followed by end of course exams, AP, IB etc.  It is difficult to maintain connection and culture for a school community at a critical time. 

The sheer amount of testing in elementary schools has also been highlighted in the Student Achievement Hearing and in letters going to elementary PTA’s as that testing has been expanded. 

There is value in routine assessments that are just part of good teaching however the central demands on this have been expanding. 

It would be helpful for there to be a coming together on which of these assessments are now duplicative.  There is also concern that the amount of assessment is not supporting literacy, a love of reading or even expanding of content exposure that means reading and writing confidence and achievement can grow. 

We will circulate a list of all of the assessments and continue the discussion  with DCPS Office of Teaching and Learning at our January meeting. 

Thank you to all of you who attended and wishing everyone a safe and happy holiday season. 

Ward 4 Ed Alliance Meeting 11-14-24

Attending: Ida B Wells, SBOE, SELA, MacFarland, Digital Equity, John Lewis, Roosevelt, Barnard, DC Council, Powell, Brightwood  

Introductions and News

MacFarland

First 8th grade Halloween Dance was a great success, events for 6th and 7th

First Winter Art Showcase Dec. 18th 6 to 8pm- public is invited.  Band performance included

MacFarland is building its Student Empowerment Work- leadership development as well as empowerment avenues for young women

Barber came in and gave free haircuts. There was a huge turnout at a staff happy hour,

PTO is up and running with Steady translation, questions, response and feedback agenda,  

MacFarland will host the Feeder pattern Holiday Market on Dec. 7th

Barnard Elementary –

BARNARD BEARS PIZZA NICHT

Join us for a night of pizza, fun, and community! Bring your family and friends to support Barnard Elementary School while enjoying delicious slices at Brightwood Pizza.

BARNARD BEARS SUPPORTER TICKETS:

$25 FOR ADULTS & TEENS

KIDS 12 AND UNDER ARE FREE!

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20TH

6РМ-8РМ

BRIGHTWOOD PIZZA BY ANXO

711 KENNEDY ST NW

WASHINGTON, DC 20011 

This event is a fundraiser to benefit our Barnard Care for Bears Fund which provides enriching experiences for our scholars like field trips, school events, and books from the Scholastic Book Fair. In addition, our Care for Bears Fund helps ensure students have basic necessities like winter coats, shoes, and uniforms. Thank you for your love  

LINK https://secure.givelively.org/event/barnard-elementary-school-pta/barnard-pizza-night-fundraiser

https://barnardbears.ptboard.com/

Ida B Wells: Scholar led conferences a great success- SLC- fantastic participation with over 60% of families coming

Support for parents in understanding and supporting their students. Workshop: DC CAPE, ELA and Math, what it is and why it is  important. Wells invited those that scored 4 and 5’s and 3 to a family event to acknowledge the effort.

.

DCIAA – Wells played Deal in semi- finals, come back in Spring

 2nd Annual Homecoming last week in December,

Term wards, International Potluck all coming up

Staff team and parent team are integrating. Wells started a Parent Whats app group. 

A successful House party with Whittier Wells and MacFarland parents coming together. 

College Tour for 8th graders to George Mason

Truesdell is going strong – new building coming along, literacy night, math night coming up. 

Language Acquisition Division Welcome Center- small monthly parent meetings addressing basic things like how to open a bank account, Sodexo, and the food service options. They will be doing Know Your Rights in December.

Roosevelt: There was a popular truck or treat festival on Halloween, this past week Roosevelt students had 45 college acceptances under 2 million in scholarships.

Brightwood. Math Bowl, Holiday and coat drive,.

DC partnered with the DC LSAT collective to hose the in person budget meeting at Brookland Middle School. . Dec. 9th DCPS will hold their first iteration POC convening at Emory for LSAT teams at Emory. 

John Lewis: enrollment up to 522 as lower grade classes expand, there is concern about space planning and how to accommodate a growing enrollment.  More in bound children– added a 4th 1st, K. Getting ready for school play for next year, took a visit to the White house.

Digital Equity: Presentation by Grace Hu, Melody Molinoff and Alexandra Simbana

Website:  email: digitalequitydc@gmail.com

Grace, Melody and Alex serve on DCPS Technology Advisory Committee, send them feedback on tech issues, invite them to do a walkthrough, flag tech issues in your testimony to DCPS and to the Council.  Of special concern: AP tests will all be on line for this year.  Please notify digital equity of any issues

Important Facts: budget cuts last year meant that refreshing is now going to happen every 4 years instead of every 3.

Central office provides: 3 to 12th grade – one to one devices; for PreK -2nd  a 3 to 1 ratio. Every WTU member automatically should receive a computer; refresh of smart boards and a limited supply of replacement chargers. 

They do not supply: Devices for computer labs. Computers for non WTU member staff, printers

If your school has insufficient devices check the TIP Web inventory.  This is how DCPS and OCTO keep track of what is needed. 

Devices are aging and unreliable.  We need advocacy on this.  Please document tickets and resolution levels with OCTO as well as internet connectivity issues. 

Budget Discussion:

Looking to new administration: Needs: Legal Aid- supporting within the legal framework, training on how to be a good neighbor offered by the ACLU. Maintaining schools as safe spaces should be a priority. 

Ensure that budget is figured on purchasing power when any calculations are made assessing stability. 

Ensure that DCPS and Council arrive at a way to fund that is close to the law and prevents the upheaval of the summer – additional funds always welcome but there were equity challenges and ramifications.

Schools are already braced for receiving less than they need and constantly having to recalibrate and figure how to get by with less than what is essential.  Staff stability is crucial to mental health of both other staff and students, so personnel cuts are destabilizing. Mental Health continues to be a major concern, so support staff in this area cannot be reduced.  The foundation level of the DCPS budget has to allow for teaching and support.  Program and the boundary study recommendations need to be taken into consideration.  DCPS cannot start things like the 6th grade academies and then not fund them continuously.   Even being projected for 15 fewer students can translate into a cut that will be quite difficult. 

Student Assignment and Boundary Change Committee Recommendations are attached here.  The Mayor accepted all but the end to the geographic right of students in Crestwood, 16th Street Heights dual geographic right to Deal and MacFarland, Ida B Wells. This also affected the dual geographic right that some students have to Woodson and Eastern. 

We will invite T Michelle Colson to the next Ward 4 Education Alliance meeting.  She will be the Ward 4 State Board of Education Representative for the next 4 years . We will also plan something to thank Frazier who has attended every  meeting, solicited our feedback and delivered books to all of our schools

Meeting Chat

Samskara Yesterday, 6:28 PM
Hi Raquel, confirming that the Welcome Center is a resource for all new DCPS families? Or is it Ward specific?

Raquel Ortiz, DCPS Welcome Center (she/her) Yesterday, 6:29 PM
ALL DCPS Families, we also support other families that are not sure if they are able to enroll, for example overage, and we connect to schools and programs in DCPS and outside of DCPS, for example Carlos Rosario or Next Step.

Samskara Yesterday, 6:30 PM
Thanks 😃

Raquel Ortiz, DCPS Welcome Center (she/her) Yesterday, 6:30 PM
https://dcps.dc.gov/service/supports-english-learners-els

A Rowe Yesterday, 6:31 PM
Heh yeah it’s been like 11 years in DCPS

Alexandra Simbana Yesterday, 6:32 PM
Sharona- Hi .parents/families can not sign up to testify UNLESS they submit testimony ahead of time. This is not a time that more barriers should be placed before hearing from families.

Sharona Robinson Yesterday, 6:34 PM
Sharona N. Robinson
Manager, Community Affairs and Engagement
 
Office of External Affairs

District of Columbia Public Schools
1200 First Street, NE
Washington, DC  20002
O 202.671.4550
C 202.423.5091
F 202.535.2703
E sharona.robinson@k12.dc.gov  
W https://bit.ly/dcpscommunity-action-team
Twitter @DCPS_Community
Facebook http://bit.ly/Wards7and8
 
Schedule a Meeting https://bit.ly/bookwithSharona

Bijan Verlin Yesterday, 6:52 PM
Can you all share those full survey results?

Melody Molinoff Yesterday, 6:52 PM
I’m sorry that I have to drop for my son’s cohort check-in. Great to see you all and thank you for having us!

Grace Hu Yesterday, 6:53 PM
If you have any feedback on DCPS tech, our email is digitalequitydc@gmail.com
thanks for having us!

Raquel Ortiz, DCPS Welcome Center (she/her) Yesterday, 6:53 PM
Thank you for that review. 7th Grade Alex!!! Now I feel Super OLD!!

Sharona Robinson Yesterday, 6:59 PM
DC Defenders @Cathy Reilly

Raquel Ortiz, DCPS Welcome Center (she/her) Yesterday, 7:04 PM
Legal Aid for families for representation for their cases (from DC local). Help filing for Power of Attorney - in the case that a parent is detained. Organizations that can help: ACLU, Immigrant Legal Resources Center, United We Dream, ACLU, and others that receive funding from immigrant justice legal grants. Please note - Schools should not be providing legal advice, but can and should connect families to CBOs.

A Rowe Yesterday, 7:05 PM
Noah says he doesn’t have a charger for his school laptop at Banneker but he thinks he could get one. He was able to get a loaner laptop when he needed one yesterday. Lucia at Powell/5th thinks there are enough computers.

Nick Wertsch Yesterday, 7:06 PM
I have to hop off now, but will follow up with Cathy to make sure I include relevant asks in our testimony for the budget hearing!

Math - Lucas Cooke - MacFarland Yesterday, 7:08 PM
Have to hop off in about five minutes - glad to make it this month and see everyone!

Alexandra Simbana Yesterday, 7:10 PM
Intervention positions, counseling, teaching, assistant teachers, admins (bilingual) — REALLY all the school positions aren’t negotiable. We’ve cut too much for too many years.

A Rowe Yesterday, 7:12 PM
When we talk about buying power is it staff? Only staff, mostly staff, ??? Just want to focus a letter on something that’s not about “buying power” and instead humans interacting with kids

Alexandra Simbana Yesterday, 7:15 PM
Not just stability of purchasing power but stability of staff that service students because the change hurts the schools at all levels.

Raquel Ortiz, DCPS Welcome Center (she/her) Yesterday, 7:18 PM
  Thank you all - have a good night!!

A Rowe Yesterday, 7:21 PM
Re: Height - we have neighbors sending their kids there before K when they can send to Powell “by right” but I’m not sure how common that is

Alexandra Simbana Yesterday, 7:22 PM
Thanks Cathy. Gotta get the Littles to dinner and bed.

Sharona Robinson Yesterday, 7:22 PM
December 7 for high schools at Eastern
December 14 for PK3-8 school at DC Armory
Ed Fest 👆🏽

Ward 4 Ed Alliance Notes

October 10, 2024

Attending: Roosevelt HS, Ida B Wells, Whittier, DME, DCPS Community Action Team, Brightwood

Safety Discussion: Challenges with recent incident at dismissal- Ida B Wells team did great, PTO and partnership support makes a big difference. 

1 safety including safe passage and resources. There is concern with the lag in communication to the community and families.  It is understandable that it has to be correct and not compromise any investigation or safety. However, the fact that the principal cannot communicate and the length of the lag sometimes has weakened trust instead of strengthened it.  Hoping this can be carried back for another look.  At Roosevelt there is continued concern with the broken door to the health suite as well as gratitude for the working HVAC system. 

The raised traffic calming bump has been helpful for Dorothy Height and Truesdell and the extra help from parents and community navigating drop off and pick up.  The 8:30 start time for Roosevelt has helped with the traffic congestion. 

Brightwood is down a crossing guard at 13th and Nicholson and this is a problem.  When a security guard or crossing guard is out sick or on leave, there is often not back up.  The process or replacing security guards or adding with DDOT is only on first come first serve- there is no priority on how dangerous the intersection is or what other resources the school has to cover the gap.  For example there is no crossing guard for Tubman at Georgia Avenue and Euclid and they are fairly far down on the que to get one. This is a very busy intersection and these are small children.  LaSalle on Riggs Road is in the same position.  Schools in highly residential neighborhoods may not have the same urgency.  Safety factors and a priority system should be instituted. 

In addition these positions are hard to fill, they are not well paid and they are part time so that retirees and young people without families can perhaps take the jobs.  Would it be possible to have stipends available for volunteers that could help?  Also the more affluent communities have been able to lobby to close streets for example at Bancroft or they can mobilize volunteers that can do it for free.  This is something we will follow up on. 

2. How is the MTSS system working for schools with discipline – Muti tier support system is the model we currently have.  Staffs are basically familiar with it.  At this point in the year students needing tier 2 and 3 identified, psychologist is amazing – intentional with plans.  Wells

Whittier – Intervention teacher very important – This person is very helpful in supporting tier 1 so there are not as many tier 2’s .  They also have an acceleration teacher for the students who need plans.

What schools need is the budget for Intervention and acceleration teachers as well as the ability to retain staff 

At the high school level- At the high school level the academic leadership team is engaged – there are lead deans and a team of intervention coaches, psychologists and counselors.  If additional folks are needed they are brought in. 

Enrollment at the schools that are represented is strong – over projection. Roosevelt is at at least 940 and students continue to arrive.  Coolidge even with limitations due to space is still high – 1100 and the work on the new cafeteria is progressing. 

Wells will probably be at 550.  There continues to be some influx and changes. 

Attendance – everyone working on this – it is going fairly well. 

Whittier has 6 self contained classrooms – this is 60 students and they are affected by the special buses.  Whittier is at 454 and counting.  In boundary students continue to come, some from area charter schools. 

Announcements: From the My School Lottery parent committee: the Panorama survey will be rolled out to all schools since that data will now be on the school report card – it is important to fill it out. 

The DME is going to start a My AfterSchool DC portal in February

And head to Kingman Island on October 19th

Resources: Here’s the list of MTSS Specialists by Cluster:

Cluster 1, Cluster 4: Smith Alexander, Tatiana (DCPS) Tatiana.SmithAlexander@k12.dc.gov

Cluster 2, Cluster 5: Petrov, Tiffany (DCPS) Tiffany.Petrov@k12.dc.gov

Cluster 3, Cluster 6: Gusman, Olivia (DCPS) Olivia.Gusman@k12.dc.gov

Cluster 8: Leland, Daniel (DCPS) daniel.leland@k12.dc.gov (Daniel is their Manager too)

Cluster 7 and 9: Caesar, Myleka (DCPS) Myleka.Caesar@k12.dc.gov

Meeting chat

Damián Popkin (DCPS) Oct 10, 6:23 PM
That’s been a major pain point across the system
That I’ve been seeing at many school

Rubio, ANC 4E01 Oct 10, 6:32 PM
Definitely something to look into

Damián Popkin (DCPS) Oct 10, 6:47 PM
Only secondary

Hannah Kozik (DC Council) Oct 10, 6:49 PM
Yes! Please send it, Cathy!

Rubio, ANC 4E01 Oct 10, 7:01 PM
Great meeting, have to drop off for a PTO meeting

Ward 4 Education Alliance Notes – September 12, 2024 Meeting

Attending: SBOE, MacFarland, Roosevelt, DME. DCPS CAP, Ida B Wells, Truesdell, John Lewis, Dorothy Height, citizens, Deal, Student Advocate

Cynthia Jackson Prather – 1969 graduate of MacFarland JHS, Truesdell and Roosevelt HS as well

It was a track system then, with four tracks Honors, Academic, General and Business.  Cynthia tested into the honors track and took English Math, science, Latin, Social Studies, Home Ec., (learning to cook and sew) Gym and Orchestra – learned to play the viola – DC Youth Orchestra was operating then.  You could also take French

There is an annual Alumni Picnic – and Cythia is also a member of People’s Congregational Church as well as the sorority Delta Kappa Gamma.  She has been part of planting daffodils at MacFarland and praised the landscaping at both Roosevelt and MacFarland. 

Questions on Reading: while volunteering to help young people prior to the PARCC did not go well, reading to children at Shephard is going well.  This area of promoting reading and supporting it can be one that volunteers can play a role in. 

The goal is to have young people enter high school ready to do that work and be part of that environment. 

READING – a big challenge.  If we knew what worked for each child, we have legions of volunteers who would be happy to help. We would rally the forces. 

Challenges include funding- resources now spread thin, housing for families, race, immigration and of course poverty

News from the schools: MacFarland start of school, excellent, staff and students happy to be back.  6th grade class comfortable.  Great back to school night, after school programs look good. MacFarland is also having some clubs meet during the advisory period since everyone cannot stay after school.  WE Love it Wednesdays.

MacFarland is starting a School Empowerment and Social Justice program.  We are starting this month and will host a summit when we are ready.

Frazier on reading – reading is beyond deciphering the code, it is about thinking about what we have read, being able to talk about it and then write about it. The weight on the standardized testing has set us back. 

Roosevelt has started dismantled the International Academy so those students would feel more integrated into the school. They have started a House system with 5 houses.  There will be an induction day. The PTO is off to a great start with motivation and energy. 

JLG office, DGS tried something new and the HVAC is working better at the schools.  Still struggles at Whittier. 

Dorothy Height: new fully modernized building.  Reading specialist used to have almost a closet and now has a lovely classroom. There are 2 playgrounds, beautiful entry point on 13th street.  Adults so helpful with street crossings for children.  Small fixes easily complete – all in all a terrific opening.

John Lewis – very smooth start, terrific turnout for back- to- school night. 

Budget Discussion

DCPS has 117 schools and the budget falls into different buckets   -, school wide, instructional and central office 

-        -Schools First allocated additional funds to schools that came largely from central.  Items that central could formerly cover for all schools, are not now being picked up and the expense falls back on the school’s local budget should they want to keep that service

-        This works out okay for schools that got additional funds. Best example is REMIND

-        Schools that met projection, are fully staffed and did not qualify under Schools First for more money, now cannot cover REMIND.  This was the main trusted familiar way to communicate with families.  This is now inequitable. 

-        When schools get their budget in February, they have to identify staff to be cut is they do not have the funds.  The communication to those staff members happens before the Council funds are identified or released. 

-        The practice of holding schools completely harmless for enrollment loss has meant those schools have significant additional funds.  If the school supply was stable, this might enable them to increase enrollment.  As the PCSB noted recently though, there is a saturation of schools.  This has meant schools that are full, do have overcrowded classrooms and are feeling the stress. 

-        When schools get the additional funds from Schools First they are often able to upgrade positions to keep and attract staff.   Inflation has meant that some positions are underpaid. This has meant that staff leave schools where they have been budgeted in as part of a stable group and go to schools that have the extra funds. It has ironically been destabilizing.  It has made things unpredictable and difficult as it sought to solve a real problem.  We can’t just solve for stability, without taking the whole picture into account including equity and unintended ramifications. 

Along with REMIND technology funds were cut so the ability to replenish the supply of computers and ensure that students have working devices is not there unless you were a school that got additional funds or has access to private funds.

The perception in the public was that this was a political fight with each side blaming the other.  However there is a belief that DCPS and the executive should follow the law or work to adjust it.  It did not feel honest.  In addition we cannot get too far away from the funds following the children.  Adjustments need to be made but the current budget process is broken. 

Teacher contract – why is there again such a delay? 

Additional concerns:

-        Movement between charters and DCPS after count day

-        Charters beginning to start a 4th or 5th grade and the upheaval that has meant – there is no planning that holds as a value maintaining a DCPS public infrastructure.  It is just a competitive system.

-        Lack of transparency – lack of formulas to trace how funds are allocated

-        Teacher retention

-        Need to expand dual language opportunities

-        Funding inequities – for example the way Mutli languge learners are funded as opposed to dual language programs, non MLL students in a dual language program, how does that funding work? In some schools is there double funding, others inadequate.  Where is the analysis of cost of program and then alignment.  The way all programs are funded in the current DCPS budget model.  Final question, are our black English dominant students losing. 

Next meeting is scheduled for October 10 which preceded a parent conferences and a long weekend.  We will propose the 9th.  

Ward 4 Ed Alliance Meeting Notes for August 8, 2024

Welcome

Check in with schools:

Wells: 80% enrolled, incoming 6th graders just completed a summer bridge week that went very well.  They had 48 consistently attend, worked on core values, how to use locks, executive functioning.  They will have a field trip to a place that has a zipline on Sept 3rd   Hope the weather holds.  They are planning a field day culminating activity. Thank you, Ms. Hutchins.

August 23rd Family fun- School Wide Ice cream social.

Successful celebration of Ida B Wells, school is named after- her birthday. July 16th. A celebration of her life. 

Wells is still collecting uniforms, each grade changes colors so passing them along as students move up is a great help.

SBOE Member Frazier O’Leary is still collecting and distributing books- so far 50,000 books have been donated and then gone to school libraries.

MacFarland: 2 successful movie nights, thunderstorms were challenging but it bodes well that neighbors did turn out and this will be continued.  The goal is to deepen relationships and provide a community hub. 

MacFarland ended up hosting Roosevelt summer school due to the HVAC issues at Roosevelt. This wrapped up last week and now the custodial team is getting things ready.  There has been some fresh painting done and the murals are wonderful.

The Music program at MacFarland is taking off – asking for donated instruments the Band Director has already had 11 trombones donated and flutes, a guitar in the office.  It has been inspiring.  They got a call from a graduate who is now an award winning toastmaster to auction off a performance.  He was at MacFarland f rom 1968 to 71. 

Building Issues: Concerns with leaks in library at MacFarland, seems to be in the rain water reclamation and the HVAC at Roosevelt. Folks on the walk through of Roosevelt expressed deep concerns with the amount of work to be done.  Council member staff noted that the school’s priority list varied from the list DGS has.  The plan seems to be to fix the A wing and with success there move to the B and C wings with a more permanent fix than previously.  The leak from the sprinkler system has damaged floors which are now being repaired.  Thank you to Mr. Weinmann and Representative O’Leary for this information.  Ward 4 Ed Alliance is happy to follow up given the short time before first day for staff the week of the 19th and then for students on the 26th

Report on Integrated Schools – Robin Appleberry is a Co-chair of this work.  The history of segregation and racism in our city and in these neighborhoods is humbling. This might be something we make a main topic with guests who have lived it at one of our meetings this year.  There are concentrations of wealth. 

Budget:

With the cuts this year REMIND which has been a parent notification program provided previously free to schools will have to revert to the school budget or be cancelled on October 1.  Because it was not used in many schools it became one of the targeted programs with the cuts to central to bring more money to the schools as part of the Schools First legislation.  It sent text messages.  The cost is $3.00 per student per year. 

Vocabulary.com is another program that may have been previously available but will no longer offered.

With Schools First one unintended consequence of some schools getting money in the spring summer outside of the budget process is that school leaders can raise a position to a higher level granting more pay.  This position opened up to others in the system has meant staff leave a school that had a stable budget and staff in order to get higher pay.  There are positions that should be paid more.  However this has been very de-stabilizing.  Schools losing staff cannot hire quality this late.  One school lost 3 people. 

Changes in curriculum this year: climate change unit for 6th grade is at Kramer, Sousa, Johnson, and Capital Hill Montessori. The PD for that unit is happening over the next two weeks
Social Studies Standards approved will be rolled out.  7th and 8th graders will get both Us History and Civic Action. 

Financial Literacy will also be rolled out. 

There are Pre-K slots available at Dorothy Height – if there are waitlists at other schools – happy to receive them- school will be in a new building as well!.

Ideas for Meeting guests – Planning. History of areas, Glenn Starnes from DCPS.

Announcements: Ward 4 Ed Alliance Meeting August 8, 2024

·        Know Your Rights in collaboration with the DC Board of Elections, Legal Aid's Policy, Community Engagement, and Immigration units will host a non-citizen voting Know Your Rights information session on August 27th from 3-7 pm at Mt. Pleasant library. 

The Fair Budget Coalition's Economic Justice group helped fight for the funding of the Local Resident Voting Rights Act of 2021 and now that non-citizen residents are able to vote in DC elections, we want to ensure non-citizens are familiar with how voting works and address any concerns or fears they may have. Legal Aid hopes this event plays a part in encouraging greater non-citizen voter turnout in the general election this November.

Please share this information and the attached flyers in Amharic, Spanish, and English.

Library event page - https://dclibrary.libnet.info/event/10901834 Social Media toolkit - Non-Citizen Voter Event Social Toolkit.docx (attached)

·        League of Women Voters Youth Voices for Statehood event - deadline for submissions is Sept. 1, there are cash prizes for participation -it is a showcase not a competition.  The event is on September 20th from 5;30 to 7pm.  It is for young people 11 to 18 - and there are lots of possible ways to creatively communicate about statehood.  Spoken word, acting skits, singing with or without being accompanied – questions and submissions go to statehoodteam@lwvdc.org

·        DCPS Back to School Block Party on Sept 14th 11am to 2pm – Ward 4 Ed Alliance will be at a table with the other Ward Education groups and C4DC  When: Saturday, September 14, 11 am – 2pm  Where: Jefferson Middle School Academy (801 7th Street SW)  Register to attend

·        Back to School Events https://backtoschool.dc.gov/events

·        Title IX changes https://www.icontact-archive.com/archive?c=1748247&f=3100&s=3172&m=350193&t=683ff6e55fceb8d669aa5ea6b8253ac84d14528c98c4873195440427f0ff88d5

·       DME Chief of Staff Job

https://mota.applytojob.com/apply/BxfZlBCPuQ/Chief-Of-Staff-Office-Of-The-Deputy-Mayor-For-Education-DME

Master Facilities Plan https://dcgov.app.box.com/v/mfp2023report

Aug 8  Chat

Rubio, ANC 4E01 Aug 8, 6:34 PM
Hutchins_Wells_6GA Aug 8, 6:48 PM
Ramona.Hutchins@k12.dc.gov

lucas.cooke Aug 8, 6:50 PM
And Robin is our PTO president. :

Damián Popkin, DCPS Aug 8, 6:54 PM
I’ve got a couple updates/requests from other schools
I might be able to help with community

Frazier Aug 8, 6:56 PM
Frazier O'Leary 0man9@aol.com
Frazier.oleary@dc.gov

Robin Appleberry (she/her) Aug 8, 7:00 PM
I need to drop off. Thank you Cathy and all.

lucas.cooke Aug 8, 7:04 PM
We used it at my former school.
Sorry my wife called I missed the question!

Damián Popkin, DCPS Aug 8, 7:15 PM
Suggest for school planning in oct-nov

Julie Lawson Aug 8, 7:18 PM
Found my notes. Confirmed climate change unit for 6th grade is at Kramer, Sousa, Johnson, and CapHill Montessori. The PD for that unit is happening over the next two weeks

Rubio, ANC 4E01 Aug 8, 7:19 PM
DDOT /Safe Passage beginning months

Julie Lawson Aug 8, 7:19 PM
DOEE is also launching a building science program at Phelps and a wildlife science unit at Kramer 7th grade
Flag also that there is a community meeting on Saturday 8/10 at noon regarding the murder of 14 year old David Bailey at Lamond Rec Center last week. Meeting is at Friendship Ideal

Hutchins_Wells_6GA Aug 8, 7:21 PM
Hutchins' Plug for Wells:  SY2425 at Wells, we will host a science fair in January. We would love to have community members come out to judge the projects so that we can pick the top 5 for the district STEM fair.

Ward 4 Education Alliance Meeting  June 13, 2024

Attending: John Lewis, MacFarland, Takoma EC, Roosevelt, Ida B Wells, Brightwood, Truesdell, Whittier, DC Community Action Team, SBOE Member, DC Council

Budget Discussion:

Bijan Verlan from CM Mendelson’s office joined us. 

Schools First moved 25.4m back into school budgets.  

How are these calculations made?  The Chairman believes that the 12.4% increase in funding to DCPS through the UPSFF should be seen in school budgets.  The calculation involves this as well as 1 general ed teacher for 25 students.  This year was difficult because the personnel salary increases were more, so schools may have still seen cuts. 

There is concern on what was cut from Central from schools that do not qualify for these large amounts in extra funding and depend on the services offered by Central for support.  What was cut?

We will send a list of the cuts to Central in the city budget to make the re-direction back to schools possible.  

Which Schools are receiving funds?

Raymond – $531,047

Powell- $467,148

MacFarland- $272,755

Truesdell- $1,454,219

LaSalle Backus $677,019

Lafayette- $632,850

Coolidge – $915,208

Ida B Wells – $253,140

Barnard-$178,691

Dorothy Height- $126,570

Full list can be viewed HERE

For more information on the city and education budget – LBA Budget Attachments in the Document titled FY25 LBA- Packet https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Hearings/hearings/435.

When will funds be available for schools who are getting additional money? While the hope is for mid July, an exact date cannot be made yet. 

After the Mayor signs the budget.  DCPS will issue guidance.  These are for personnel funds.  Non -Personnel funds will not be available until after October 1. In addition, the Council raised the threshold on NPS for reprogramming from 25,000 to 100,000

Unintended Consequences:

If the timing of these funds comes before the transfer deadline schools fully staffed who did not receive additional funds have lost staff in the past.   For example, if a school was able to hire a behavior tech for 50,000.  With the additional funds other schools are getting and difficulty of hiring this late in the summer, another school can offer another Restorative justice position at maybe 75,000.  If an employee is going to a higher paying job, a principal is obligated to release that person and of course wants the best for them and some of these positions are dramatically underpaid.  However, they are now left short staffed with limited funds and on the cusp of starting the new school year.  With the large amounts being awarded to some schools and the timing it is hard to imagine that this will not play out again this year. 

We would like to work with DCPS and the Council to ensure that we are not in this place next year.  The chairman’s focus on stability is appreciated but the lack of equity and the destabilizing effect of the implementation of this law can be addressed. 

Boundary Review Letter:

The Mayor left in place indefinitely the dual geographic rights for basically some of 16th Street Heights and Crestwood for both Deal and MacFarland.  What is the sense of the group in responding to this.  letter: because this is our second comprehensive boundary study, I have asked DCPS to review any Phase-in Policies from the first study conducted in 2014. Given the lack of clarity for affected families (particularly during and after the pandemic), any Phase-in Policies from 2014 will be addressed at a later time.

While, it is difficult to see this not addressed our schools here in Ward 4 are blossoming and in many ways are hidden gems.  The decision is to send a letter to the Mayor asking for clarification on what areas are affected, the rationale for delay and a request for a definite date.  There is no need to go into more detail than this and our efforts are on our schools here and the families choosing to invest and support them.

Will Perkins will be leaving DC and CM Janeese Lewis George’s office this summer.  He and his family will be re-locating to Richmond Va where they will be closer to his wife’s parents and brother.  He is very grateful to this group.  He understandably has mixed feelings about saying good bye.

•  You have been the hallmark of a public servant; you are an example of what great people do in the role of a Council Member’s staff.  Your work has had a tremendous affect on our students and on our school. 

• I appreciate everything you have done for our schools; you have done an extraordinary job.  You take calls from us in the early morning and late at night, You follow up, you oversee.  We will miss you!

• You have been in what is probably the most challenging role- oversight of facilities and DGS.  You hold people to account, you focus on the job, you have put forward policies that will make a difference.

Will noted that he started his adult working life here in DC and actually in Ward 4 under MaryAnn Stinson at Truesdell.  He has come to all of our meetings here and then also followed up.  See the comments in the chat at the bottom of these notes for Will.

PTO Discussion and Announcements

Julie Lawson (Wells PTO President) – we can continue our connections with this when more people can attend.  Middle School is a different ballgame.  Parents are more interested in getting to know other families and not as interested in advocacy or fundraising.  One thing that has worked very well at Wells is a game night with snacks.  It is low key way for folks to sit together and get to know one another – simple games like Jenga have worked.  Getting the communication out remains a challenge but it is being worked on- the idea is sound.  PTO experiences, suggestions, challenges will be on the agenda in August. We will meet in July if there is an issue that comes up or folks would like to get together. 

There is a citywide What’s App that was started by Betsy Wolf from Ward 6 for PTO folks that has been super helpful so everyone is not reinventing and struggling with things that other groups can help with.  Robin can connect PTO folks who would like to join.  It is also meant to be very helpful during the budget season so we can all be better informed about what is happening throughout the city. 

The C4DC group also brings together groups from across the city who want to invest in and support DCPS as the schools of right and a public institution. 

WMATA Changes – this could be a big deal – changes proposed are cutting the Deal bus, cutting the K-2 which runs from Takoma to Fort Totten. This will effect Capital City and probably others.  The 62 and 63 buses are facing weekend elimination.  They are taking feedback - https://wmata.com/initiatives/plans/Better-Bus/index.cfm and CM Lewis George is taking feedback at a meeting at Coolidge on June 27th.  Will forward more info.

School Shout Outs

Ida B Wells promotion is tonight!  They were the Citywide Boy’s Soccer Champs again this year.  The PTO is off to a great start.  We are super excited to celebrate our scholars matriculation to high school. For the past 2 weeks our 8th grade scholars have been engaging in end-of-year activities starting with a Day of Service, trip to Kings Dominion, and a cookout. Also, we are excited to share that our school psychologist was just selected as the DCPS Psychologist of the Year!

Lastly, our 6th grade academy under the leadership of AP Hutchins was recognized for our end of year math data. In comparison to last year, we decreased the number of scholars performing 3+ grade levels below by 22% and increased the number of scholars performing on grade level by 23% from beginning of the year to end. We are so proud of AP Hutchins and her Math team.  This week we attended the promotion ceremonies of our feeder schools and encouraging our rising sixth grade families to enroll and attend 6th grade summer bridge August 5th-9th, from 9am-3pm.

Takoma: Enrollment is going great, Held a Roof Top Mixer for staff with mocktails that was huge success. Takoma did very well in the 3rd to 5th grade Math competition which was a big improvement  Takoma put four performances of the WIZ staff and students participated.  – wonderful to see Behavior Tech’s sing – Takoma is an Arts Integration School and this was a first – so lots to be proud of

John Lewis- 3 sold out performances of Willy Wonka, a successful Field day and graduations this week. Lots and lots of field trips. 

Brightwood: Teatro de la Luna with Marcela Ferlito did 3 shows with the Brightwood students – sing along for Kinder and 1st and something more interactive for 2nd through 5th.  The connection was made through the Mayor’s Office of Latino Affairs.  – You can get on a list for this and it was totally worth it – Marcela’s contact is 202-733-0053

Brightwood also had a STEM Day with NOA – a lot about weather, 13 different stations for the students. Graduations are happening.

DCPS created a DSL, MSL Appreciation Day – honor the folks in your buildings who do this work.  It is Friday, June 14th tomorrow

MacFarland: Growth goals, data for assessment has been outstanding, students are taking trips, programming is going great.  An exciting development has been the support of the Brightwood – Petworth group that has raised $11,500 for our fantastic music teacher to work with a multi- year scope and sequence that will be like a major in music with Rock, Jazz and digital. 

Thank you Everyone – Have a terrific close to the year and we will stay in touch

CHAT

18:19:13 From Angela Anderson to Everyone:

            Good Evening Everyone,           

            First, I would like to say thank you to the you Bijan and the Chairman for all of your support for Whittier. Can you also speak about the funding allocated for Whittier’s learning cottages/modernization? Are those funds confirmed and protected?

18:19:25 From Bijan Verlin to Everyone:

            bverlin@dccouncil.gov- all should feel free to reach out

18:24:13 From Nikeysha Jackson to Everyone:

            Bijan can you share what is being cut?

18:29:32 From Robin Appleberry (she/her) to Everyone:

            Can you speak at all to the process here and how the Chairman might try to prevent this kind of kabuki theater/game of chicken next year?  I’m not criticizing the Chairman — just trying to see better process here so everyone gets some transparency and good governance in budgeting.

18:38:45 From Julie Lawson to Everyone:

            It’s a terrible process

18:57:17 From Nikeysha Jackson to Everyone:

            They are already seeing the gem that MacFarland is!!! You are doing a phenomenal job, Cooke!

18:57:29 From Vanessa Rubio to Everyone:

            Reacted to "They are already see…" with ❤️

19:02:21 From Julie Lawson to Everyone:

            Reacted to "They are already see..." with ❤️

19:03:19 From lucas.cooke to Everyone:

            Oh no Will!!!

19:04:11 From Angela Anderson to Everyone:

            Hey Will… 😊

19:04:41 From Vanessa Rubio to Everyone:

            Will miss you Will 🥰

19:04:41 From Robin Appleberry (she/her) to Everyone:

            You’ve been amazing.  Thank you so much for your service.  We wish you all the very best.

19:05:21 From Julie Lawson to Everyone:

            Traffic tho lol

19:06:50 From Nancy Smith to Everyone:

            Reacted to "They are already see…" with ❤️

19:06:55 From Angela Anderson to Everyone:

            We really appreciate you and feel like I know you. You are family ☺️

19:06:56 From Nikeysha Jackson to Everyone:

            We have appreciated all your support, Will!

19:07:33 From Angela Anderson to Everyone:

            You will be a tough act to follow

19:07:49 From Nancy Smith to Everyone:

            A great loss to Ward 4 and the city.

19:08:33 From Angela Anderson to Everyone:

            Now who will I call 🥺? You have been priceless

19:09:24 From Julie Lawson to Cathy Reilly(direct message):

            Given the turnout I have an abbreviated concept for the parent engagement discussion

19:11:45 From will p. to Everyone:

            will.j.perkins@gmail.com

19:11:59 From Bijan to Everyone:

            Council is desperate for someone to pick up Will's mantle! Please send CM Lewis George good candidates!

19:16:05 From Angela Anderson to Everyone:

            Sounds like a great group

19:18:17 From Damián Popkin, DCPS to Everyone:

            @Robin Appleberry (she/her) If there are schools missing it would be helpful to know so I can mention it to folks when I connect with them.

19:19:03 From Robin Appleberry (she/her) to Everyone:

            Yes definitely.  We did a roll call but I’m not sure there’s actually a list of who’s on and who’s not.  I’ll look into it though.

19:19:19 From Damián Popkin, DCPS to Everyone:

            Reacted to "Yes definitely.  We …" with 👍

19:20:11 From Damián Popkin, DCPS to Everyone:

            Damian.popkin@k12.dc.gov

19:24:28 From Julie Lawson to Everyone:

            https://wmata.com/initiatives/plans/Better-Bus/index.cfm

19:29:46 From Robin Appleberry (she/her) to Everyone:

            I need to jump off.  Thank you Cathy and all for a great discussion as always.  More soon.

19:33:06 From Julie Lawson to Everyone:

            Wow!!

19:33:15 From Paul's iPhone to Everyone:

            Yaaay BPCA

19:33:43 From Julie Lawson to Everyone:

            Battle of the bands with Wells next year!

19:34:58 From Angela Anderson to Everyone:

            Whittier  News:

            •         June 6th: Correspondent Dinner and Coffee with the Principal

                           •         June 8th: Chess Tournament

                           •         June 10th: International Day Festival and Cabaret

                           •         June 11th: Awards Assembly

                           •         June 12th: Field Trip Day

                           •         June 13th: Field Day

                           •         June 14th: Promotion Day for pre k, K and 5th

19:35:23 From Damián Popkin, DCPS to Everyone:

            Have to jump, thanks everyone!

19:35:35 From Tayo Belle to Everyone:

            Thanks for having me!

19:35:43 From Angela Anderson to Everyone:

            Thanks Everyone

19:35:53 From Paul's iPhone to Everyone:

            Take care

-         

Ward 4 Education Alliance May 9, 2024  Meeting Notes

Attending:  Digital Equity, SBOE, MacFarland, Ida B Wells, DME. Takoma, Brightwood, Whittier,

Digital Equity Presentation:

Digital Equity started in 2018 – noticing inadequate technical support– should be there for all children.  Expanded to three parents, Grace Hu, Alex Simbana and Melody Molinoff

They meet monthly with DCPS and prioritize

·         Devices for teachers and students

·         IT Asset Management

·         Technical Infrastructure

·         Digital Literacy Skills

DCPS has not made up the gap from cancelling procurement of devices which was their response to  budget.  The online inventory has to be updated

There should also be a multi year smart board refresh – Those purchased 3 years ago should have been refreshed. 

Bandwidth is OCTO – all schools should have plenty of bandwidth, it is the content filters that can present issues.  There also needs to be more analysis of what is driving the problems. 

Digital Equity DC is striving for systematic improvement.   This is vital – 92% of all jobs require some level of skill – higher the skill level –often higher the pay. 

Digital Equity is Trying to Help

-          Bridge Communication – keeps things confidential but they are able to make connections to systemic issues. 

-          Advocate for Tech resources- a baseline should be predictably funded

-          Accountability – write legislation and support greater oversight

-          Meets regularly 

They welcome hearing from all communities – digitalequityudc.com

digitalequitydc@gmail.com

Questions:  What number are they using for one to one?  - in grades 3 to 12 one to one is the goal, PreK to 2nd  it is one to three

The number DCPS central uses is from the TIP inventory kept and updated by the school – if that is wrong – it means the device allocation is wrong

Problem with registration in high schools for SYEP

The problem is the content is blocked on the school WIFI – have to continue to look into this content filtering

Digital Equity includes – PA system, telephones, CTE equipment and Audio visual in classrooms and auditoriums

Parents, Teacher Community Organizations

Julie Lawson

Ward 4 would like to support the formation of these groups in all of our schools,

There are different issues that come up with the formation of a new parent interest group

-          Should there be a mandatory contribution

-          Do these organizations hire staff to supplement

-          Budgets have a huge range  from 0 to a couple of hundred to thousands of dollars

These organizations are independent, they are essentially small businesses

Other states have an umbrella organization that can support and help with start up

Here is DC there may be groups like the Washington Lawyers Committee that could help. 

Think of a Rose and A Thorn…

MacFArland is in the second year of an event that is co sponsored by the PTO – also the Brightwood Petworth organization has embraced MacFarland –

The PTO is small but mighty. 

Thorn is the process of bylaws, financial status etc

There is massive inequity across the city with regard to these organizations and what they are able to solicit and provide. 

On the Ward 4 Ed Alliance Website – happy to post a page of resources

Idea for a Parent organization cluster – may be aligned with feeder pattern cluster

PTO – a team approach – build relationships, foster communication with school admins

Cluster approach – 4 elementary schools that feed into Ida B Wells and then Coolidge can get to know one another, provide insight and support. 

6 Schools that feed into MacFArland and then Roosevelt can do the same. 

There is a National PTA that has a Council that laid out recommendations for getting started   - one challenge we have is bridging the bilingual, ensuring that things are translated

-          Suggestions – helps to provide childcare and food – (maybe community service and donations of food)

-          Time of meeting – Saturday mornings, poll the parents to find out what works..

-          Allow families speaking a second language to talk to one another and then to report to the group sometimes,  Or switch the translation

-          Helpful to have a directory – find a way to get emails to families, pass out fliers, work to be inclusive and not a click

-          Be patient, have the long view

We will hold a longer meeting next month to have a longer discussion on Parent teacher groups and partnerships. 

Meeting Notes for April 11, 2024

Ward 4 Ed Alliance Notes for April 11th Meeting

Attending: Whittier, Brightwood, MacFarland, SBOE, Ida B Wells, Roosevelt, Powell, Sela, Takoma,

Guest: Deputy Mayor for Education, Paul Kihh, Director of Budget & Performance Management. Michelle Yan and Clara Botstein Senior Director of Policy

DME Budget Presentation:  –

·         Increase in Costs- WMATA- 928m, Labor- 591Million- Retirement- 200 m. Medicaid Matching 112m Utilities- 160million

·         Expiring federal funds- 313. Billion – 2.3billion in Recovery funds, ARPA ed funds 618 million, ARPA rental assistance- 418 million

·         Less growth – 6% per year since 2010- FY24 through 2028 2% not keep pace with inflation

700m gap to be filled- 493 million- saved in efficiencies, catalytic investments made are 174milllion-  city will need 328m in strategic new revenue

Plan is for Sales tax – paid family leave and hotel tax

Education:

·         349million to increase school budgets

·         217m to support WMATA

Capital budget

·         2.8billion- 33 public school facilities

·         225m – for building upgrades

·         50 m to convert downtown 129 to modernize build rec centers, 87m to renovate libraries

Housing protection fund taking a cut -- less 41m

Eliminate 407 FTE across the city including DCPS central

Pleased that:

·         80% of 3 year olds and 88% of 4 year olds attending PreK for free

·         14,668m – at risk raise in UPSFF - .24 to .3 is $880 more- adult students 1,320 more

·         1.4B DCPS budget- 183m more- we had parked 54m on ESSER had to bring those back onto local budgets

o   128m went into schools-

o   central and school support 10% reduction, no additional-

·         Student to staff ratio – 200 FTE decrease - - FY25 will be 6 to 1

·         Teacher Apprenticeship Program – 550,000 

·         500,000 educator well- being,

·         4.8m in high impact tutoring

·         2M in literacy

·         Directing 7m to DHS

·         Safe Passage 9.7m

·         Micro transportation 7M

Out of school Time

Education

o   Advanced Technical Center – grow Penn Center – 1.5M

o   New Ward 8 health care .6M

o   3.5M – investment in internships and dual enrollment

o   .3M to diversity high school course offerings through vital Course Hub

UDC- 1.1 M to provide coaching and wrap around to support students staying in college

SLED- 10.8M for operating and 4.18M for capital

We will be educated through employment Data Systems on where students are landing

Collecting data on school courses – 1.78M

Discussion:

Concern about timing – if Council adds to budget, hiring or using those funds is too late for this school year.  Can this please be improved: Executive is doing what they can to get the budget right, need to will continue to work with Council.

o   Schools First- not sustainable – families = request for additional funding doesn’t come through until NOW.  School will purchase devices but that is not what they wanted

o   Cutting seats which falls on out of boundary seats essentially limits growth for DCPS and cuts a school’s budget.  - cuts their budget and ability to offer programs- Coolidge has 158 9th graders on wait list from lottery. 

o   What secondary schools are prioritizing is programming and adults who can support behavior. Cutting these hurts all around.

Question:  – Dept of Health Services – will this be better for truancy process?----DME: UPLIFT ACT – fix challenged truancy referral process.

o   DME understands that families and students need support and reminders to be in school – has to be positive – this is not what is happening now

o   On Excused or unexcused absences – regardless families get scary messages – bereavement, health operations, sicknesses. Schools say their hands are tied they have to send them

How is communication handled so families know about programs you have ATC? Dual enrollment?

o   School leaders and counselors have the information – you get college credits at the ATC-  

o   This may not be enough in getting messages to families.  These things need far more publicity

o   Is communication done in more than one language? ( We will follow up on this)

o   15 high schools are sending 200 students

Digital equity – has always stressed it has to be continuous reliable funding source – no hotspots – no reliability –

DCPS is a 1.4billion dollar organization – Concerns about credentials of high up central admin– answer; a systems administrator may not have to be from the education world. Organizational skills, government knowledge are a credential. 

Families want a feeder pattern, there are smaller charter schools who are feeling the crunch of families leaving to gain greater predictability and stability.  A number would like to be part of a feeder pattern.  This will partly be addressed in recommendation #23 of the Boundary and Student assignment study. 

Safety safe passage

DME  - We have safety committee recommendations – now the DME office is working on an implementation plan which we will send out in the next couple of weeks. It will detail what we plan to get done by this summer.  Protocols for schools.  We will be providing that guidance.  Some can be implemented soon.  Some live in the UpLift legislation including the changes to the truancy referral process. 

o   Safe Passage around 54 schools, they are not on routes,

o   DC school connect shuttle bus service

o   Staggered openings – violent interrupters – not helping kids- many wait and convene, we have students who come late – safe passage is not there.  Happens right after the 9:30 mark

o   Truancy needs to be enforced. 

Safe Passage is helpful however there are limitations to safe passage.  It is a question of scale we have 5 to 1 ration inside and these folks are trained and know the students.  Students are released and we may have 12 adults to 1500 students as different schools converge.  This is a scale of 300 to 400 to one.  Young people may make poor decisions – we need a better scale, staff are not able to intervene and redirect the way t is now.   

Can the security guard contract be changed so that they could be helpful outside of school grounds?

Nurse situation- model that dept of health has turned to with the nation- wide nurse shortage.  Childrens’ National hired in February 40 additional health tecs.  They will be fully staffed –

o   Concern is that they need to be stable people how know the families and staff, it is more than a body in the building.  The plan is for additional training and greater access to the nurses that are there.  While it is a work in progress, the current plan will remain in place. 

o   DC is a city with 250 schools, this is part of the challenge with this staffing

Autism awareness – same issue as stability and need for continuity and low turnover.  A parent noted the need for more system stability – took her child 2 years to grow confident with the teacher, when the positions come and go, this inconsistency has a huge learning and emotional cost.

School Reports:

Takoma a fantastic school.  Principal doing a fantastic job, enrollment growing rapidly

Condolence for the loss of an 8th grade student at Ida B wells last week.  The crisis team members were in the building – the school is pushing through the grief.  This brings home the need to support efforts around pushing safety – get the right numbers around campus and at the metro stops and bus stops- Takoma less than a mile away – eyes -only so far. 

Started enrollment season, complete applications, DC testing starting and will be after spring break.  National Honor Society Induction – had over 30 double what Ida had last year,  High school decision day – 30 to application schools – most very excited to go to Coolidge.

MacFarland – number of field trips – 2 museums, 2 college, rock climbing – good time to be out . first ever STEAM night, Literacy night – Saturday academy 75 to 80 kids coming.  Multilingual learners –.  Lots of collaboration with Ida B Wells, and welcome more partnering. 

AND Noah Rowe won the City Spelling Bee and is headed to Nationals – kudos to DCPS and MacFarland. 

 Whittier recently won the Math Bowl first place. April 5th coffee with principal .  Community is over excited to keep school in our community for swing space, they had to move back a year but through work with Ida B Wells and Coolidge – this is the right direction.   SNEEK Peek – families come into building, students meet teachers of next year.

27th school wide play date and enrollment fair ECE waiting lis tis growing –

May 4th – Spring Carnival

Next Meeting is May 9th we will be joined by 

Meeting Notes for March 14, 2024

Ward 4 Education Alliance March 14th Meeting, draft notes

Attending:  Ida B Wells, WTU, Whittier, SBOE, MacFarland, DC CAT, Council

Report Card: the SBOE  has voted on the categories for the new report card.  There will be no STAR rating posted at the top of every page.  There are more categories for schools to demonstrate their programs.  There will be a number required by the Dept, of Education.  It is not a proxy for quality but rather a way to identify the 5% of schools most in need of additional supports.

Schools – pay attention to how they are described and its accuracy.  Here is the current look – an example of MacFarland and Ida B Wells.  We will look into and inform schools as to how this can be corrected or expanded on at OSSE- who the contact person is. 

John Lewis had an International Day celebration with classroom doors decorated representing different countries.  SBOE Member Frazier O’Leary was asked to judge. 

Facilities Concerns:

Powell – leaks

Continued push by Whittier for modular classrooms located closer to current campus as well as a full look at capacity issues for Wells, Coolidge and Whittier. 

Wells: Terrific piece on getting girls involved in sports Washington Spirit worked with Wells girls soccer and saw terrific results .

Pause on the Schoolwide Enrichment Model  as they look to hire additional staff. However the Gardening Club will continue

Swim team off to a great start

Talent Show will be on May 28th

Promotion is June 13th

Parent organization is building community – Spring Family Game Night had great turnout

Parent Conferences included students for 8th graders –

Staff continues to engage with students – Justice Cooking Club, Nail Salon, Debate Club

MacFarland:

Good luck with a Literacy Night

There will be a STEAM Night to allow the same opportunity for the Science and Math, Arts and Robotics- performances

Great breakfast with the WTU – a chance to discuss operational issues

Ideas to Build on Feeder School Enrollment and Follow through

Driver for middle school enrollment is belief and access to high school.  For MacFarland it is tied to Roosevelt, Principal Cooke and Principal Wilkerson work on this.  For  Ida B Wells – it includes perception of Coolidge and its programs. 

Safety is an additional concern

Ideas:

EdFest is crowded and it is hard to get a true feeling.  What if there were a DCPS or even a feeder pattern or for Ward 4 both Coolidge and Roosevelt feeder pattern Open House on a Saturday from 9am to 2pm.  Elementary families could go to all 4 in boundary middle schools and the two high schools. They could hopefully meet current students and families, see demonstrations, hear a band.  Elementary schools could also be open for neighbors to drop in and see what wonderful things are going on. 

It may be a challenge to pay staff for this time, it however could be a real opportunity to engage our communities in what is often hidden, in terms of what is going on inside our great schools. 

ANC’s have grants available that could help with something like this – it takes writing a proposal and then filing the reports to ensure that the funds are being spent on what they are intended for. 

This is a goal of the Ward 4 Education Alliance – to support the vision articulated by both the Student Assignment Committees – and confirmed with public input

Vision is of a core system of high quality DCPS public schools of right complemented by a set of high quality public charter and DCPS citywide school options.

The Student Assignment Advisory Committee Report is due to be released at the end of this month. 

Concerns for Ward 4: 

Continued concern with swing space for schools being modernized like Whittier and LaSalle to have something closer to their school –

--Concern that the response here to overcrowding and expanded interest in the schools is to cut out of boundary enrollment and urge schools to stay within their capacity.  Ward 4 supports the vision of neighborhood schools across the city.  However, the concern is there is a different metric for Ward 3 evidenced by the capital expansion there.  We all pushed DCPS and DGS to build Wells and Coolidge to accommodate more students and were told that the enrollment would not justify that.  A capital solution to Whittier, Coolidge and Wells in particular should absolutely be considered. 

The chart displayed here on our website gives data on FY25 projections and the MFP capacity numbers for the Ward 4 Schools. 

Questions  and concerns on capacity – how is hallway width taken into account?  For example the enrollment capacity can be expanded with higher class size etc but if the hallways are narrow, students will not be able to move through them safely either on a daily basis changing classes or in the case of an emergency. Are they restricted by the fire department? 

If schools grow, lots of accommodations can be made, there should also be other planning considerations like this. 

Next Meeting is April 11th,  Deputy Mayor Paul Kihn will be our guest – safe the date 

Chat from meeting:

 Damián Popkin 6:05 PM

Thanks for the context!

Paul  to  Everyone 6:11 PM

https://washingtonspirit.com/blog/2024/03/13/the-case-for-showing-up-ida-b-wells-middle-school/

will p.  to  Everyone 6:19 PM

im on for about 3 more minutes

Madzongwe IBW MS  to  Everyone 6:26 PM

Hi! My name is Farai Madzongwe. My work email address is farai.madzongwe@k12.dc.gov and private is teacherfarai@gmail.com

Damián Popkin  to  Everyone 6:31 PM

Paul -- happy to link you with folks at Dorothy Height to set up a time to tour Sharpe. damian.popkin@k12.dc.gov or by phone 202-615-9153

Julie Lawson  to  Everyone 6:38 PM

We did student-led conferences one year at Whittier! I

Julie Lawson  to  You (Direct Message) 6:40 PM

Did you plan a specific conversation re boundary study? I would happily vent about how things turned out for Wells/Coolidge in that.

Damián Popkin  to  Everyone 6:48 PM

I wonder if there's something that can be leveraged around when the 3rd graders go to learn how to swim

Kind of like Enrollment Saturday?

Damián Popkin  to  Everyone 6:56 PM

Another idea--are there any 4th-5th grade competitions that could held at the middle school amongst the feeders? Like a spelling bee, a sports tournament, etc

Julie Lawson  to  Everyone 6:58 PM

Families start making decisions about middle and high school trajectories really early. Give informal opportunities for families of PK-2nd to see middle school and high school programs so it’s less of an unknown

Paul  to  Everyone 6:58 PM

What about adding 4th-5th grade families to the PTO events, like the game night you mentioned. I’m sure Whittier 5th grade parents and families would show up to hear from Wells parents.

Julie Lawson  to  Everyone 7:02 PM

With my work hat on, more community events to show what’s happening at Anacostia HS would be really helpful

Julie Lawson  to  Everyone 7:02 PM

The Wells band performances were so inspiring in the fall

Julie Lawson 7:02 PM

Really showed the progression

Meeting Notes for February 8, 2024

Ward 4 Education Alliance Meeting

Attending: SBOE, Whittier, Roosevelt, MacFarland, Ida B Wells, Roosevelt, John Lewis, Takoma, Powell, Brightwood, Coolidge

Guest: CM Janeese Lewis George

Report Card: Vote will be on February 21st, there are still concerns on the Board with the OSSE proposal. It does not have stars but continues to have a number between 1 and 100 displayed.  The number is derived to indicate which schools will qualify for additional help.  It is not a quality measure but is used that way. There have been some improvements with added measures noted.  This is something to pay attention to. The Board can only vote it up or down.

School News: Ida B Wells: Middle of Year testing completed, as well as Access El, indicates lots of growth. Boys basketball – played great but lost to Johnson. Swimming team has started practicing.  Art showcase was fantastic wit music.  Wells educator honored.

Whittier – Open house was crowded, 60 interested families, full turnout for coffee with the principal, 100 days of school completed.  Student government up and running.

MacFarland- PTO getting off the ground with interest, 6th grade movie night, carnation sale, curbside coffee a great success,

Roosevelt -College applications and scholarships getting fantastic support. Mr. Wilhite is doing a great job. 

CM Lewis George: great to hear about budget, family services, any facility needs, locks, doors, digital equity, traffic safety, nursing staffing, counselors. Performance hearing for DGS and Family services Feb 26th at 9:30am and on the 29th at 2pm. 

Concerns: Coolidge auditorium has broken chairs, and leaking, crowding at both Ida B Wells and Coolidge.  There is a need for a capital fix for these schools, it cannot be just the cafeteria.  The crowding has led to increased wear and tear on the building.   

Whittier PTO continues to advocate for swing space that is closer and the need to work closely with Ida B Wells and Coolidge who are right across the street. 

Transportation- there are age restrictions on scooters and electric bikes, also School Connect is just getting traction but ridership has probably not ticked up yet.  School people would support more deployment of Safe Passage workers, this program is going well.  There are new people on the route to school between Allyson and MacFarland.  There are however gaps in the walk to the Petworth metro. These workers and Collaborative Solutions as partners have helped. 

The budget, raises account for the need for at least a 12% raise to cover at a minimum.  That increase in purchasing power largely did not happen.

Nurses – the nurse technician at one school was out for the last 2 days. What schools need is a person who is familiar with the students and families at the school and come regularly.

Roosevelt- Lots of celebrations, Senior Night for Athletes, Black History Month.  Roosevelt is fully staffed -8 counselors, 2 psychologists, able to support the whole Roosevelt family. Academic partners have been able to work with tier 2 and 3 students leading to lots of success and growth on the middle of year assessments.  Multi language learners are in core classes and have access to rigorous CTE courses as well. Roosevelt is excited to be developing the capacity of the teaching staff at the same time.  There were 24 mid year graduates. 

Digtial equity concerns – many are out of life cycle.  They then have to be sent back to the warehouse.  WE all want DCPS to move to one to one.  Students at some schools take the computers back and forth, others are not able to.

Whittier continues to lobby for a modular space in this neighborhood, as stated before they want to see a collective solution.  Whittier had over 60 families at an open house.  This is such tremendous growth.  Whittier has asked to meet with the Mayor, City Administrator.

Principal Jackson. JohnLewis is dong well, growing every year, projection high, overcrowding ,  new students get added as the year goes on – moving into the area, coming back from other schools.

Concerns continue with school citing for charter expansion. 

Remaining concerns

Teacher contract – negotiations have to start, 5am meeting a non starter.

Meeting notes for January 11 , 2024

Ward 4 Education Alliance January 11, 2024 Meeting

Attending:

SBOE, Whittier, Powell, Friendship, EmpowerEd, Takoma. STAY, Brightwood, Dorothy Height, Coolidge, Ida B wells, Roosevelt, LaSalle Backus, Truesdell, John Lewis, MacFarland

Guest: CM Mendelson: Committee of the Whole Hearings on education: Principal and teacher retention, academic achievement PARC scores, school safety, budget.

On Attendance – the hearing made clear that the interventions of referrals for elementary to CFSA and for secondary to Court Social Services are not working.  We need to understand why are they being absent, home family for elementary. 

Principal and teacher turnover.  DCPS and the DME has said it is not a problem.  The turnover in the charter sector is higher, only 4 had higher retention than DCPS.   This works against the statements about IMPACT being a problem (that DCPS has better retention then charters – but it is a problem.  An average of 79% retention is still too low. Academic performance is an ongoing concern.  Budget has been an ongoing problem – for example: Teachers contract never worked into the UPSFF, a lot of spending from ESSR funds which will end – DME is working on reports, boundary study  early March, adequacy study same time frame and the Master Facility Plan.

Council Oversight hearings: 2 days of public testimony – Feb 27th and 28th. 

Questions:

·        Whittier – question around swing spaces-it is 2.5 miles away - is there something that can be done.  CM Mendelson will try to support CM Lewis George in a solution for this.

·        Make sure chancellor goes to table with WTU- meeting with Chancellor tomorrow and will bring it up.  Should have been a contract in September so it would be part of budget.

Planning

·        Heads Up: Student assignment for Ward 4: Preview on where recs are landing – opening of MacArthur and increase capacity at Deal means that Coolidge and Ida B Wells are now the most crowded– there will be lottery adjustments for Wells and Coolidge as well as capital investment to expand.  There are also several thousand housing units coming on line.  One thing is over capacity, the committee is also trying to solve for under capacity – what are the programs we need?   CM Mendelson: understand the committee is discussing programmatic changes – attendance- enrollment is affected by program but in for CM this is a mistake – such as what grade middle school starts –this should be separate.  Charter schools value their independence, recommendations will be – complicated by saying they have to start middle schools in grade 5. There may be issues that will require Council action.

·        Planning – program is an important part of planning, look at dual language.  Limited capacity at middle school.  Invest in schools, people want to stay in their communities. 

·        Will you commit to holding a hearing on the Student Assignment Recommendations? How can we have a more rational system 250 schools, 70 separate school systems.  We need a single unified system.  If the recommendations are not controversial, they did not do their job.  I don’t see any option other than for me to have a hearing.  You could bring back a sub- committee on education.  Council chair would still need to pay attention. 

·        Lack of planning and community involvement in opening of charters.  Bethune is looking to expand to 174 students close to Takoma and Whittier.  The community has expressed concern about drop off and pick up on Aspen, they then moved it to Piney Branch which is also an issue.  The problem is there is no traffic study required.  School looks at current enrollment and then tries to project.  Once they are there, they can come by right.  A private school has to go through a more involved process with more requirements and a public school goes through the Council.  Charter only goes through PSCB and they do not give weight to community concerns.  Council Member will give this some thought.

Budget

·        Schools are really underfunded.  Teachers stretched way to thin, physical plant problematic – for example a trash can catching a leak at a school for months or sometimes even years.  HVAC, grounds, erosion, sidewalks muddy.  Schools First in Budgeting law implemented by Council.  Schools should not see reduction.  Increase in UPSFF will probably only reflect teachers raise.  Paid out of UPSFF last year.  No other increase.  Annual cut to two thirds of schools will not happen.  There will be stability.  Mayor or Council will put more funds into at risk funds.  We will then be introducing more equity.  Picture CM is seeing right now. 

Physical plant DGS and Capital – capital is not the same problem. There will probably be a tax increase to pay for metro funding – public education will probably not get more than last year but there should be some increase for WTU contract.  Not great still too much money that is being spent in central administration.  Council reduced their spending.  The Council will also use OSSE grant programs for funds outside of the formula.

·        Concern that things previously paid for by central, like learning platforms are now paid for at school.  Also, a point of information:  STAY programs, opportunity academies do not qualify for at risk or title one funding.  Council will account for big things with schools first. We are looking at how DCPS implemented their budget this year.  There is concern that they used ESSR funds to cover cuts- this is not allowed.  Council cut vacant positions from 120 to 80, reduced increase in contracts to a little bit above what they were spending last year.  HR and procurement and curriculum development for example will absolutely stay whole. 

·        Parent of 7th grader – in terms of budget process – In Nov or Dec schools get their enrollment estimate – appealed.  Most often school is then cut, Admin has to rethink staffing alignment, reallocate positions and then submit the budget with a short turnaround and that is what goes into the mayor’s budget.  Council can turn around in the spring but by that point school has let people go, restructured – it is very stressful.  In May contract not renewed and in June asked to come back. Many have found another job.

If that happens, I will be upset, then DCPS will be upset. Under Schools first in budgeting, school budget is not based on enrollment to such a large extent.  If a school loses a full grade at elementary – they lose that teacher position. If loss is spread across all grades they should not lose. Schools need stability- title one is included in stability –Council is also looking at other ways to give additional funding. 

·        Mid- Year Mobility: Flood of students after count day from charters.  Line in budget mid-year mobility.  Another line – enrollment reserve – these are part of DCPS central budget and should be allocated to schools.  There is some additional funds in DCPS budget for mobility. 

·        Digital equity continues to have concerns about technology budgeting for example replacing laptops, CM is concerned that DCPS does not budget seriously – have to budget to replace laptops – they do into different lines in budget to try and find the funds.  Problem with planning and budgeting.  Hopeful that this will not be the case.  They have brought in someone new to oversee budgeting, he is much more receptive. 

·        Traffic safety – will be in the purview of what school safety committee will address

Our goal here we want a strong citywide system of DCPS schools that students have a right to attend that is complimented by schools of choice- we are about the institution.  This should be strengthened in every part of the city – everyone deserves good schools they have the right to go to.  Council is concerned with stability – Care about DCPS has a public institution.  CM:   I agree with what you just said. You are right I talk about stability – DCPS stronger and DCPS by right schools more attractive across the city. 

How do we plan if we want stability how do we set in motion something that will enable that to be stronger? First step for greater transparency.  Greater knowledge.  In depth understanding of the cost is of expansion, better answer to the question - does it really make sense.  Yes. 

Closing thoughts – wife is a DCPS school teacher.  Hard time for teachers’ problems with retention – We have to do more to protect teachers, social workers – overworked and over stressed.  There are always new initiatives – “everybody wants to build no one wants to maintain “–simplify give more time to teach, less top- down initiatives. Trust them as professionals.  Take things off of the teacher’s plates.  Social emotional learning, don’t pass this without a plan or taking other duties off. They just need time.  Keep it simple.  Listen to what their needs are. Computer or smart board, do not move, printer paper after Wednesday – little problems take up a lot of time.  Give them back time.  Social workers, teachers need time

Get rid of PARCC – one month prepping, make ups –

Mayoral control of school – clean , honest transparent – an accountable legal budget – is it working? CM: let’s see what they do 

Thanks to the Council Member for attending and listening – very much appreciated.  CM thankful for all who came. 

Chat:18:18:59 From Bijan Verlin : You can track the hearing schedule and sign up to testify here: https://lims.dccouncil.gov/hearings/

18:28:22 From Nick Wertsch : Sorry to be late, this is Nick Wertsch from the Truesdell FTO

18:50:54 From Alexandra Simbana : The timing misalignment is DEATHLY to school personnel planning!!

18:51:34 From Karen Kassekert : Reacted to "The timing misalignm..." with ❗

18:54:04 From Alexandra Simbana : Trauma is 100% accurate Chairman. Thank you for the commitment to correct this issue in the budget if needed.

18:56:51 From Tayo Belle : Nancy, our school (Truesdell) is also facing the same issue during our modernization process happening now. Our PTA has reached out to our CM and DOT, with no help so far. It’s been a real safety problem as well as a disturbance to the school’s routine.

18:56:57 From Scott Goldstein : This is one of the reasons one of the most essential things we need in the boundary process is to implement a required impact study before there are any new schools approved. We need a coordinated city-wide approach to schools citing- not two separate systems.

18:58:11 From Julie Lawson : Reacted to "This is one of the r..." with 👍🏻

18:58:15 From Nick Wertsch : I’d like to second what Tayo said - we have reached out about this issue and how it affects Truesdell, we have not gotten help in addressing this issue yet.

19:08:59 From Alexandra Simbana : Thank you Chairman.

19:10:01 From Alexandra Simbana : A lot of robberies of DCI students on Aspen & 16th, Aspen to Cedar towards to the Takoma Metro.

19:11:08 From Julie Lawson : Many kids mugged on their way to and from Wells and Coolidge, too. Families mobilized for our own campaign to get neighbors out and observing

19:11:58 From Susan Fridy : There are parents on the call from Whittier as well and part of our ask to keep the Whittier swing space in the community is to contribute to building community and reducing crime in Brightwood. Carting kids back and forth across neighborhoods is counter to that philosophy (along with all the other known problems that come from traveling for swing space)

19:12:19 From Paul Strzelczyk : Reacted to "There are parents on..." with 👍🏻

19:13:53 From Karen Kassekert : We have to put resources into our physical facilities if we want to make things better. We can’t put students in facilities with rodents, mold, leaks, etc. and expect them to keep attending. I don’t know all the problems with DGS (budget? Accountability? Oversight? General competence?) but they need to be fixed.

19:17:06 From Julie Lawson : I commit to following up with you on the budget process!

19:17:57 From Alexandra Simbana : You know I’ll follow up with you after the budget rolls out. The needs increase and more students come and we appreciate your attention and care to helping us.

19:20:16 From Alexandra Simbana : Teachers and admin are lifting mountains EVERY SINGLE DAY!!

19:20:23 From Scott Goldstein : AMEN

19:20:30 From Tayo Belle : Reacted to "Teachers and admin a…" with 👍🏾

19:21:00 From Erica Cartledge : Not just teachers.  School social workers, counselors, deans, school staff in general.

19:21:27 From Karen Kassekert : Reacted to "Not just teachers.  ..." with ❗

19:22:39 From Karen Kassekert : We had a student pass away on Monday night. We were given a reprieve on Tuesday, and IMPACT started again on Wednesday. There are very concrete reasons why teachers are leaving. Also, ALL LOVE for our relative service providers- we couldn’t do it without you!

19:22:47 From Angela Anderson : It’s been great to hear all of the issues addressed tonight with budget and safety. I ask you to keep Whittier in the forefront of your mind because a forced move to Sharpe is a huge safety issue for our neighborhood school of majority walkers. We will loose enrollment, teachers and overall families for generations to come.

19:22:57 From Beth Leone : Yes.  TIME!

19:23:10 From Alexandra Simbana : Reacted to "We had a student pas..." with ‼️

19:23:20 From Erica Cartledge : Replying to "We had a student pas..."

 Meeting chat for December 14, 2023

18:06:06 From Zakiya Lord (Whittier parent) To Everyone:

Brb have to step away for 1 mins

18:10:19 From Math - Lucas Cooke - MacFarland To Everyone:

I think every school convinced my daughters to buy something Saturday . . . : )

18:12:58 From Zakiya Lord (Whittier parent) To Everyone:

An amazing team of students, and Mrs Heller is a real gem. Great show last night.

18:13:49 From Zakiya Lord (Whittier parent) To Everyone:

Outstanding.

18:14:05 From Nikeysha Jackson To Everyone:

Thanks awesome, Principal Johnson!!!

18:24:05 From Regina To Cathy Reilly(Privately):

Cathy, are the enrollment figures in a website?

18:26:53 From Math - Lucas Cooke - MacFarland To Everyone:

Sorry all -had to check on the game - it's a close one!

18:28:05 From Cathy Reilly To Everyone:

Good luck, keep us posted

18:42:23 From Math - Lucas Cooke - MacFarland To Everyone:

Okay - we have a solid lead now!

18:43:56 From Math - Lucas Cooke - MacFarland To Everyone:

Sorry - I'm not sure where we are on the agenda!

18:44:15 From Cathy Reilly To Everyone:

https://www.dcschoolboundaryexplorer.com/map?mode=view

18:48:43 From Zakiya Lord (Whittier parent) To Everyone:

Looking at it now and will keep it open and review after the call. Thank you

18:49:03 From Vanessa Rubio, ANC 4E01 To Everyone:

Reacted to "Looking at it now an…" with 👍

18:55:45 From Zakiya Lord (Whittier parent) To Everyone:

Thank you for raising the issue of safety. I do not have any suggestions but I do appreciate the “feet on the street” initiative

18:57:25 From Maurice L Edwards Jr To Cathy Reilly(Privately):

medwardsjr@yahoo.com

19:00:02 From Maurice Butler To Everyone:

https://dfhv.dc.gov/page/dc-neighborhood-connect

19:06:49 From Zakiya Lord (Whittier parent) To Everyone:

Thank you again. Sorry to have hopped up. My son isn’t well tonight,  but grateful for all of your sharing.

19:06:55 From Zakiya Lord (Whittier parent) To Everyone:

Take care.

19:07:05 From Maurice Butler To Everyone:

Take care everyone

Newsletter for Nov. 9th Meeting:

Newsletter November 9, 2023

Adequacy Study Family Survey

I hope this note finds you well. As you know, the DME is currently undergoing a School Funding Study to ensure equitable distribution of resources to our school communities. 

To ensure ample student and caregiver voice in this process, we’re reaching out today with a request for your assistance to distribute a family survey to your communities!  The family survey itself consists of about 15 questions and should take approximately 5 - 8 minutes to complete. Responses will remain confidential and are intended to help the team gain an understanding of what families consider when choosing a school and how they think about school resources and resourcing.

Please take a few minutes to fill out this short survey to share what matters most to you in your student’s school, what is working well, and where we can improve. The survey is open November 1 through November 15, 2023.

Por favor, dedique unos minutos para completar esta breve encuesta para compartir lo que más le importa en la escuela de su estudiante, lo que está funcionando bien y en qué podemos mejorar. La encuesta estará abierta del 1 al 15 de noviembre de 2023. Michelle Yan(she/her/hers)Chief of Staff Office of the Deputy Mayor for Education   Cell: 202-445-3342

School Report Cards

DCSBOE is working with OSSE to update the 2024 DC School Report Card site. They are looking for feedback and would appreciate your help to fill out this survey. OSSE/SBOE on School Report Cards--A survey on these subjects is also available here. To see the current report cards, go here.

Monday November 13, 6–7 pm: session on how and where the report cards should display schools’ summative scores. This session will be virtual; register here.

Monday December 4, 6–7 pm: session on what the report cards should look like. This session will be virtual; register here.

The recommendations published by OSSE’s Early Literacy Task Force.

DC Nurses Association is organizing a community meeting on 11/28 for parents, school nurses, and other concerned dc residents.

We are looking for parents to share experiences they have had with the new model this school year. Please let me know if you are interested, and reach out with any questions.

When: Tuesday, November 28th, 2023 from 6:00 PM-7:30 PM

Where: The NE Library located at 330 7th St NE

For questions, comments, concerns, and to RSVP email:

rga.rn@hotmail.com Robert Allen, BSN, RN; DCNA Interim Vice Chair

Decoding Dyslexia – Vocabulary

To become an expert reader, the ability to decode words is only part of the equation. Students need to know what those words mean, and they need to understand the words in context. Vocabulary knowledge is a vital part of reading comprehension. So what do parents and caregivers need to know, and what can they do to help their child grow their fund of vocabulary? Join us as we hear from Carla Askew of the Reading and Language Learning Center.  November 15th 7pm – Here is the link 

Advocacy Meeting for Decoding Dyslexia – Nov. 13th 7pm link is here.

Budget Meetings:

DCPS is holding its annual (mandated) budget hearing on Tuesday November 14 at 6 pm, for feedback on the FY25 budget. Register to testify at this virtual event by November 10 at this link. You can also send questions to ceo.info@k12.dc.gov.

Council

• B25-479, the “Addressing Crime through Targeted Interventions and Violence Enforcement (“ACTIVE”) Amendment Act of 2023”https://dccouncil.gov/event/judiciary-public-safety-public-hearing-62/

• 11/14 at 1:00 PM- DCPS Budgeting Oversight (Invite Only)

·  11/15 at 12:00 PM- B25-342 PCSB Term Clarification; PR25-300 Nomination of Carisa Stanley Beatty to the Public Charter School Board

·  11/20 at 11:00 AM- B25-540 School Improvement

·   

·  11/21 at 2:00 PM- Teacher Incentive Bills (B25-200 Educator Retention for Student Success; B25-499 Student Loan Repayment Assistance for Educators)

·  11/28 at 11:00 AM- School Naming (B25-539 Shirley Chisolm Elementary School; B25-350 MacArthur High School)

·  11/28 at 4:00 PM- Principal & Teacher Retention Oversight- Public Witnesses

·  11/29 at 10:00 AM- Principal &Teacher Retention Government and Expert Witnesses (Invite Only)

·  11/30 at 10:00 AM- Education Legislation before COW (B25-35 Universal Free Meals;  B25-317 Extended Students' Right to Home or Hospital Instruction, B25-436 IHE Sexual Misconduct Reporting and resource Accessibility; B25-501 Universal FAFSA Graduation Requirement)

·  12/6 at 1:00 PM- Academic Achievement Oversight

·  12/12 at 11:30 AM- Chronic Absenteeism and Truancy Oversight

Proposed re-location of Mary McLeod Bethune Day Academy Public Charter School to the Takoma Park Baptist Church at 635 Aspen St NW for the 2024-2025 school year.  Church recently approved a letter of intent for the rental.  There has been no community engagement on this to date.  The ANC 4B02 has tentatively scheduled a meeting for Nov. 20th. There are no requirements for parking or a transportation study when a school locates. 

 School Safety Task Force

The Office of the Deputy Mayor for Education (DME) is kicking off a school safety task force. The meetings are public. You can register to view the first meeting here, and you can sign up for future meetings and biweekly office hours

(Tuesdays, 10-11am) here: https://dme.dc.gov/schoolsafetycmte.   The power point from the first meeting held on Tuesday, Nov. 7th is on the SHAPPE website here. 

Ward 4 Education Alliance Meeting of October 12, 2023

Guest – Michelle Yan from the Deputy Mayor for Education’s Office, spearheading the Adequacy Study –

The Adequacy Study is looking at the -Funding formula and funding policies writ large. It is looking at both the UPSFF – the formula that funds all LEA’s and funds that are awarded outside of the UPSFF. 

Key goals: funding policy that provides equitable and adequate resources to serve students well. Looking at both UPSFF and non UPSFF

Focused on Equity – where and how to change weights. Weights are assigned to different grade levels and levels of need and this weight is then multiplied by the foundation amount.  They are looking at the role of different adults, as well as how the pandemic has impacted the role of the school.  Are schools now required to be more connected and are school personnel spending more time on connecting families to resources – housing, food et. 

First step was for external consultants to look at landscape analysis nationally.  For example, Weight level and definition of group.  Are funds for student with special needs awarded by the kind of service or by the number of hours required (DC does hours currently)? They are also conducting research on the relationship between funding and student outcomes measured by achievement, and graduation rates. 

They have convened Professional judgement panels, to get a sense of what is needed; coupled with interviews with school principals.  People were chosen to provide a comprehensive view across grade levels and systems.  They are also talking to families to get their perspective – improvement, changes growth.  They will be doing a broader survey as well. 

Question: Facilities funding – including DGS maintenance dollars, is this included? Right now they are looking at FCC work in charter sector and how that has ranged – ways that dollars are spent, any results on student achievement – they will then take into account the DGS and DCPS piece

Question: Is there accountability on how an LEA allocates the funds? – how is inflation taken into account – even in budget model – cost of raises are passed onto school.  There does not seem to be any accounting for inflation at the school level. 

Two ways – formula –

·         Foundation level resetting that dollar amount – taking into account salaries today. 

·         And this is indexed on salaries now and what they are predicted to be. Weights are indexed off of the foundation level. 

Degree to which adequacy study will address structural changes related to educator salaries.   For example, what goes through the UPSFF and what does not – DYRS and DC Jail –do not, but St. Coletta’s is funded through UPSFF- what makes sense moving forward?  This applies to both the sector and to individual students

Timeline – when will we see what you have been learning, and how will we be engaged in this discussion?

What are the big policy decisions – end of the month and beginning of next month there will be sharing.  The final report is due in late November early December. 

LSAT Collective: Elizabeth Corinth is a volunteer who co-founded the LSAT Collective.  She is a parent at School within a school at Goding, as well as a substitute teacher. 

Website for DC LSAT Collective google site

Description of LSAT – membership is composed of teachers, parents, community and students (in HS)

Working with DCPS to strengthen LSAT’s – every school should have a strong engaged LSAT –

Provide information and resources, create space so different LSAT’s can share and connect, new and veteran working together.  Coordinate LSAT advocacy

Monthly zoom meetings from 7 to 8:15 bit.ly/dclsat

Google group- https://groups.google.com/g/dc-lsat-collective 

Group established website, consistent meetings, strengthened LSAT DCPS connection,

This year’s goal is to mprove Principal LSAT relationships—partner with dCPS DME to get timing improvements on the LSAT review and decisions on the school budgets, expand access to important LSAT meetings, LSAT more meaningfully engaged in CSP (Comprehensive School Plan) and lastly  Opportunities for feedback

Specific Concern on Timing of getting budget back – acknowledgment that there is timing challenges.  DME – cannot go faster because of budget projections and deadlines.  CSP might be more flexible. 

February – in terms of engagement in the fall, there is a conceptual end of things.  LSAT’s can address anything on the front – what are the priorities? This discussion could take place in the fall.  Think through if you got more money what would you do, if less what?  CSP Core goals, how to support and not undermine?

What about more stable budget – 3 years? 

Another layer in Budget LSAT conversation – this past year we received, worked on and delivered the school budgets.  After that in the summer – a big chunk of budget came through, holding schools harmless all good. However, those vicissitudes have a large impact.  If schools will be held harmless, it is important to know prior to budgets.  All working together however, decisions are made separately.

It would be helpful to have questions in advance of the budget discussion so that parents and teachers not fully familiar could get up to speed quickly.  Questions could be broken out by content – translate into Spanish, training in Spanish also.  Principal coaching you on what is going on, but you don’t understand and then you vote.

How many schools in DCPS do not have LSAT’s – don’t know.  If school does not, then does principal just decide?  Yes, the LSAT is advisory.

Roughly 10 to 15 schools do not have an LSAT – there are schools that do have an LSAT’s that are not functioning properly

In schools where there was no  LSAT – principals were required to hold mandatory staff meetings

Thanks to Elizabeth and the LSAT Collective

Student Assignment Boundary Process

There are three geographic groups meeting between the larger monthly meetings to wrestle with the issues in that area.  Ward 4 is in two of the groups that are organized by  high school feeder patterns. 

Vanessa is in the Coolidge, Dunbar, Eastern group. The other groups are Woodson, Ballou and Anacostia and finally Jackson Reed, MacArthur, Roosevelt, Cardozo. 

Coolidge, Dunbar and Eastern: Do not have to share specifics but what do you want our feedback on. The rights grandfathered in 10 years ago prior to Ida B Wells and MacFarland coming on line, will probably be changed to straight geographic rights as was envisioned. 

Currently there are programmatic feeder rights – what does that do, does it privilege some students over others – only certain schools provide whole language.  Suggestions are coming in on this.

We need input from those that will be affected. 

Follow up on Community use of DCPS schools and fields: The Expanding Community Access to Safe and Clean Recreational Space Act of 2023 requires Department of Parks and Recreation to enter into an annual agreement with DCPS to determine the hours of community use at participating DCPS sites at times that would not interfere with school student related activities.  DCR will also commit to providing security and custodial services as necessary.   – This was piloted this year at Garrison and Banneker with $197,000.  Hopefully there will be a hearing with additional funding during this budget season. 

Also there is a bill on school safety staff with a committee in the DME.  Here is a School Safety Resource from the DME

Nurses – Libby Buchele – lobster@umich.edu is spearheading an effort to lobby for better nurse coverage.  She is a Jackson Reed parent. 

John Lewis – has added 200 students in last four years – they cannot sustain this rate of growth.  This is a 10 year plan, plan for this.  Is this population growth a bump or is it stable or ongoing?  Should there be boundaries for Dorothy Height?  Will this help with crowding at John Lewis and Barnard?

Early childhood, At Risk Set asides, equitable access, what is it doing?  It is important to preserve diversity and give priority to students.  

In strengthening the feeder patterns in Ward 4 keeping young people safe is a top concern, and it is a neighborhood concerns that the city is contending with.  Having clubs and activities for young people as well as having mentors and strong relational connections matter.  

Ida B Wells:

Since we last met, many great things have happened! On September 27th we held our Back-to-School Night! We saw over 180 families that night. Give a huge shout out to Ms. Lawson for being present to encourage families to sign-up.  

We launched our social justice SEM clusters last week were scholars take an interest-based elective and connect it to a community service project. Our SEM showcase will be Dec. 12, 4pm-5pm. 

Our DCIAA boys’ soccer team is undefeated! They play, this evening, against Lincoln at CHEC!

Also, our Hispanic Heritage Month Finale is tomorrow, 4-5. We are excited to celebrate the culture of the Hispanic Diaspora with scholars!  Lastly, Wells would like to thank Will Perkins and Councilmember Lewis-George for always being so responsive and supportive of our community! 

MacFarland: Year going well, Now have a full LSAT and PTO, curbside coffees.  MacFarland will have student led parent teacher conferences.  They are working toward having a smooth, quiet, peaceful and positive school culture.  Open Houses will be starting soon. 

John Lewis had 300 families attend the back to school night, they are starting up the orchestra partnered with the DC Youth Orchestra  https://www.johnlewises.org/

Next meeting November 9th

Meeting chat

Quintin Floyd  6:02 PM

Hello everyone, Quintin Floyd from the DCPS Community Action Team. I am here listening and have a sick little one so I will be camera off.

Andrew Rowe  to  Everyone 6:17 PM

So not indexed to salaries now?

Thanks

Michelle Yan (she/her)  to  Everyone 6:20 PM

My email is michelle.yan@dc.gov

DeAndra Brooks  to  Everyone 6:21 PM

Good evening everyone!

DeAndra Brooks, DME

DeAndra.Brooks@dc.gov

I can take back additional questions for Michelle to follow up.

Elizabeth Corinth  to  Everyone 6:32 PM

● Attend our monthly Zoom meetings (2nd Tuesdays, 7:00-8:15pm)

● Visit our website (bit.ly/dclsat)

● Post your questions and answers to our “LSAT Help Line” Google Group

(https://groups.google.com/g/dc-lsat-collective)

● Email the Collective coordinator team at lsatcollectivedc@gmail.com

Quintin Floyd   to  Everyone 6:35 PM

Yes LSATs should be having conversations in the fall once enrollment projections come out about budget scenarios

Will Perkins  to  Everyone 6:40 PM

Good feedback, principal Cooke

Quintin Floyd   to  Everyone 6:41 PM

Noted, I can take this back to the team and figure out how to partner with LSAT Collective on

Will Perkins  to  Everyone 6:43 PM

At Vanessa — Any roosevelt changes?

Andrew Rowe  to  Everyone 6:44 PM

Sorry if I kept you from talking Vanessa

Vanessa Rubio, ANC 4E01  to  Everyone 6:45 PM

No worries staying for as long as I can

Will Perkins  to  Everyone 6:50 PM

What about Brookland ms

Andrew Rowe  to  Everyone 6:56 PM

Powell’s relationship with Height and J Lewis includes its full school dual language model

Vanessa Rubio, ANC 4E01  to  Everyone 6:58 PM

Thanks everyone 👋

Andrew Rowe  to  Everyone 6:58 PM

What policy would maintain access to PK3-4 in W4 schools for those who won’t send their kids to different schools that start in K?

DeAndra Brooks  to  Everyone 7:01 PM

I have to hop to another engagement. Just sharing my info again. Have a good night everyone.

DeAndra Brooks, DME

DeAndra.Brooks@dc.gov

Andrew Rowe  to  Everyone 7:08 PM

Though to push on that Pr Cooke - Latin’s nbhd is actually as “sketchy” outside the doors

Nancy Smith  to  Everyone 7:08 PM

The planning process has to take into account projected development in each area to a far greater degree. For example, the Takoma  area has enormous development going on and project ed for coming years, including many affordable units and we are bursting at the seams.

Nancy Smith  to  Everyone 7:20 PM

It’s not just Walter Reed. We have multiple buildings going up east of the Metro tracks and at the Metro site, including at least one building totally affordable with 2 and 3 bedroom units.

Andrew Rowe  to  Everyone 7:21 PM

I heard Wells soccer has a ringer

Nikeysha Jackson  to  Everyone 7:23 PM

Yes to student-led conferences!!!

Andrew Rowe 7:27 PM

It’s a pilot not an earmark

 Ward 4 Ed Alliance Meeting – September 21, 2023

Introductions:

Takoma – ELL 49% influx of French from Ghana and Haiti ,

River Smart program – big rain garden addressing drainage program

MacFarland: After school tutoring – every day into the evening – overnight camping 50 6th graders

Musical 75 students – at 93% - Great new team members – staff

Student joy – positive lift – Chesapeake Bay water activities

Ida B Wells; 97% fully enrolled – 15 short, Back to School night 5 to 7pm next week- DCIAA Soccer season – Dance program hip hop and dance this year. 

Shepard – Back to school night next Wednesday 4 to 6:30 clubs and after school events.  Ready for tryouts for DCIAA basketball and cheerleading – Enrollment 101% Staffing missing 3 ed aides for special ed self contained

Ideal Campus – growth in PARCC – boost.  New portion opened up of building same number of students – new gym

Brightwood –ANC 16th Street Heights – 80% enrollment still receiving students.  New playground this year.  Parent Engagement Coordinator.  Speech Therapist opening

Coolidge Eastern and Dunbar –

Dual Language Track – reality is that dual language Is not standard – experience it differently at each site.  Modified and expanded- science and social studies – heritage and accelerated instruction.  Electives that supplement in a dual language as well.  2 to 4 predominantly Spanish – parallel teaching – give as many students as possible access – create new opportunities

Expanding access in an ongoing way all the way through 8th grade – Brightwood does not have it – took Spanish as a second language – Dual language after 8th grade at Roosevelt

Whittier –

John Lewis – 300 families to Back to School – 70 more than last year at this time. 

Boundary school at Dorothy Height

Boundary so many students with multiple Oyster, Cardozo, Ida, CHEC, Deal – massive viccisitudes  boundaries resolved with finality.  Any student has a right

540 now – 700 previously -  predictable.. clarity – 10 year grandfathering – 2026

Program Dual rights – should a number have language exposure or dual opportunities

Rich at your neighborhood school – mobility  hurting travel time and distance,

Capping lottery amount that is coming into your school.  If Oyster taking out – lottery reduced

Jackson Reed or Coolidge go over program capacity with lottery students – not helpful to osther schools that they are lotterying out of. 

Shepherd IB – feeds into Deal – could go to Eastern or Banneker

Are people choosing program

What should families have  - native Spanish speaker wants to enrich English skilss – struggle and match needs and desires

Important for us to figure out students who are dual language handfill – fall on racial and economic lines – unintended segregating factor in the school – honors etc – undo – access always open – predictable modeling – dual language runs into this challenge – keep on forefront

As neighborhood gentrifies – I want lottery students – limited at early grades children

Solely in boundary if we are in gentrifiying – racially less integrated

Dual language track at elementary level – DL and non DL divided

Grown by 200 since I have been principal – excited about more options for in boundary. 

For John Lewis they can go  to MacFArland –

Whittier met projection – offer clubs after school – upcoming play – biggest concern is the swing space at Sharpe which is over 2 miles – potentially walk – 46 minutes . HVAC is all fixed – air in all of the classes – do walk though for heating system next week. 

Popcorn fundraiser – sensory hallway for autism students – share or purchase. 

Ward 5 surrounded by dual language charter schools – find ways to increase number of seats – more intensive access dual language

DCPS see need and respond and serve more students – works at elementary level – deeper concern with peer group – choose application or options may not be all program – proximity and peer group

We see DCI  - plenty end up somewhere else – a lot of demand for DCI middle and high school – other elements that are appealing – effective at capturing – keep enrollment

Ward 4 Education Alliance August Meeting draft Notes  8-17-2023

Attending staff or parents from: Truesdell, Ida B Wells, LaSalle Backus, Roosevelt, Powell, MacFarland, DME, DC Community Action. Brightwood, Shephard, Raymond, Coolidge Alumni Association

Raymond excited to move in to new building.  Ready to start – anticipating good enrollment.  Ribbon cutting on August 28th in the morning.  Net zero training for whole staff on August 25th. AP Sharrieff attended Raymond as a student.  Reunion on Saturday in Rock Creed Park at 11am  lot 6

MacFarland: Three murals painted by staff with student assist – classrooms painted too.  Orientations are going very well.  Enrollment is at about 82% but first day and rollovers hopeful. Strong staff – all positions filled.  All ready.  Progress from DGS is welcome, repairs are happening.

LaSalle Backus: 3rd year of school wide computer science program.  Partners we are working with include Ernst Young supporting after school programming. DCIAA expanding sports, wide range, arts program Washington Performing Arts, Literacy DC Scores High impact tutoring as we lean into math also.  Champions will provide additional aftercare and eventually early morning care.  Challenges in before and after care really influence enrollment.

Bus from LaSalle Backus to Ida B Wells still on our radar

Ida B Wells: 5th year anniversary.  Summer Bridge opportunity for 6th graders took place last week.   Partnerships – expanding LAYC wellness, CITYBRIDGE community garden, Flamboyan for family engagement.  Adding on swimming as a sports, school wide enrichment model  and cosmetology program, fashion design.  This is also Learning about entepreneurship.  Ice cream social at dismissal, 

Back to school Night September 27th from 5 to 7pm.  Hydroponic system will be expanded

Shephard: Child Trends to improve Whole School Model

Powell: Back to School Picnic 9am to noon on Saturday the 19th. There has been an informal launch of home visits, Food Prints, Reading Partners, bi-literacy model at Powell,  First year we are not partnering with City Year.  Playworks – self management and how we utilize the playground space.  Continued work with Powell Padres – tremendous help.  No restrictions for families

New assistant principal. Both AP’s are Powell parents. 

Truesdell – Splitting between two campuses. AP Weston PreK-2nd grade.  Lower school took over Bria part.  Still moving into  Sharpe PreK3 through K.  Parents excited.  New playground is being built in the back of Sharpe.  At Ingraham, addition is being demolished.  Biggest issue is the transition of being in 2 campuses. All of the parking at Ingraham campus gone – were to leave lower lot – 70 cars competing for spots in the neighborhood.  Because we are bussing EC kids, those teachers will park at Ingraham. Everyone will be coming back to Ingraham for after care.   Will Perkins and Damian Popkin supporting. 

Truesdell Food Prints, upper school joining swimming program.  Language acquisition also a big part

DDOT spaces being applied for – may have 30 permits.   Why loss of lower lot?  Even trash tracks will have trouble getting in – 1st through 5th in older building – on construction site. 

Need to get creative here – neighboring parking lot

Additional presence in Ga Avenue corridor – more support – Ga Avenue Upshur area

Raymond – parking cut down considerably – this affects ability to recruit teaachers, They have 30 spaces, used to have 50 to 60 shared with Rec. Truesdell bulding will be larger and we will only have 30 spots. 

Underground parking – issues with budget, net zero issues, 

Problems with 70 schools in DDOT parking meeting

Affordable housing would be helpful for teachers.....

Coolidge Alumni Association: Friend of Coolidge, Scholarships, sponsor of Dollars for Scholars. 

School Nurses:

Nursing shortage – Children’s Hospital is the contracting agent through DOH.  They are going to create clusters of 4 geographically close. Each cluster an RN, LPN and 2 health techs.  Nurse manager as well. No later than August 25th ,  Telemedicine

Current set up – school nurse may have more than one school.  School staff trained to deliver some services.  If family opts in to School health center – they can provide all services- even more than the nurse.  Permission slip and insurance has to be worked out.    

You should not  have to be a large school to receive an RN,  Medically fragile children – narcotics cannot be administered by anyone- need a nurse

Importance of being able to survey data around medically fragile children – RN;s should be stationed there.  Have to call 911 if you don’t have an RN. 

It will be new terrain to work with charter schools.  In some cases, a DCPS school may be only one in a cluster.  This will be new, what will the business rules be.  How are priorities to be decided?

Children’s will do a walkthrough, often during pre-service.  It will deal with communication and go through a checklist. 

Issues:

Medically fragile

Quick communication if there are issues

Stress strength relationships

Boundaries and Master Facilities Plan

3 Buckets of priorities: strong neighborhood schools; enhanced programmatic options and predictable pathways and expanded opportunities for at risk students.. 

Ward 4 Potential Issues:

Will Dorothy Height have boundaries?

New Euclid Street boundaries – impact?

Keep strength where we have it

No more dual rights –

Should all middle schools be required to have the same start grades?

Comments: Lot of information – hard to imagine, with all of the changes – this  can makes it difficult to make a more definitive decision about charter or DCPS or what school. 

No changes will take effect 2025-2026

Particular issues

10 Year plan

DCPS does not lead this process – there will be engagement by DCPS for everyone and targeted for communities that may be affected. 

MFP: No feedback yet on capacity numbers for schools to the schools- should come to each school before it comes to committee.  It is a long term plan so things should not be cemented in the present.

Programming Issues – recommendations  are part of this process, let us know what you need to better serve the young people in your boundary. 

Link in chat – coming into the DME, you can complete this form multiple times if you have more ideas or more thoughts.  The team is responsive; they welcome all questions and feedback.

https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=8Unkj5SLt0-ZBm-Tnagtczxvnk3MmepBgILrceqyWwFUQ0wyT09DRURJRVZITU5CNU5INjk2UUU3RiQlQCN0PWcu

New Bell Schedule-- Roosevelt has had a 9am start time.  Parent reported getting a notice today that it will start at 8:30am and will end at 3pm.  There is concern with possible impact of earlier time on attendance and with the arrangements to get multiple children to different schools.  Some families depend on high schoolers to get younger children to their schools.  

Other issues with varying start times – safe passage staff, public transportation and need for coordination – this mainly effects later start time reported at another high school.   

Is there a requirement for public engagement prior to a change like this?

LaSalle Backus partners with the  Capital Area Foodbank.  There has been an increase in food insecurity LaSalle Backus served over 25000 meals servings of food, non- perishables. They will  share the calendar.  They have been serving more seniors, important that we take care of our elders. 

Thank you to everyone who attended – next meeting September 14th. 

Meeting Chat:

18:00:33 From sarahweston To Everyone:

             Sarah.weston@k12.dc.gov

18:06:11 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS To Everyone:

             Follow that punch list Principal Hubbard

18:13:05 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS To Everyone:

             5 years already!!!??? Wow!!!

18:13:19 From L. Sharrieff_Raymond To Everyone:

             Raymond ES Reunion on August 19th; Carter Baron Rock Creek Park (Lot 6) 11-6pm

18:14:08 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS To Everyone:

             Reacted to "Raymond ES Reunion o…" with ❤️

18:25:03 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS To Everyone:

             Heyyyy Andy Rowe! It’s been a long time.

18:25:15 From Andy Rowe To Everyone:

             Reacted to "Heyyyy Andy Rowe! It…" with ❤️

18:30:58 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS To Everyone:

             We are working on it as well AP Weston by way of Damián Popkin

18:32:40 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS To Everyone:

             He will be staying close to your modernization project

18:35:31 From DeAndra Brooks (DME) To Everyone:

             I will raise these concerns with our Planning and Analysis Team.

18:36:10 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS To Everyone:

             Reacted to "I will raise these c…" with ❤️

18:37:22 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS To Everyone:

             It’s Damián’s birthday - so that’s why you got me tonight 🙃

18:39:50 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS To Everyone:

             Wondering if that will start immediately…maybe when the new fiscal year will begin in October??

18:41:45 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS To Everyone:

             Principal Hubbard I would encourage your staff to apply via the School Parking Zones Program to try to solve for some of what you’re referencing.

18:43:42 From DeAndra Brooks (DME) To Everyone:

             Reacted to "It’s Damián’s birthd..." with 🎉

18:46:02 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS To Everyone:

             His name is Jason Meggs from DDOT

18:47:11 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS To Everyone:

             Principal Hubbard, Damián is a DCPS rep on the parking calls - so happy to get him to connect with you. Just let me know.

18:49:17 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS To Everyone:

             The BTS Info Session recording will be sent to people who RSVP’d in the next few days. It will also be available on the DCPS YouTube page.

18:50:33 From sarahweston To Everyone:

             Reacted to "We are working on it..." with ❤️

18:55:40 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS To Everyone:

             Even with the advocacy, is there enough human capital at Children’s to leave things the way they were previously?

18:56:05 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS To Everyone:

             Thanks for saying that Principal Gray as I was going to mention that as well via the chat :)

18:57:21 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS To Everyone:

             That is why there is also a push for families to get the medical forms in, especially those students with additional medical needs and asthma action plans.

19:01:07 From Shelly Gray_LBES To Everyone:

             Reacted to "Thanks for saying th..." with 👍

19:01:13 From Shelly Gray_LBES To Everyone:

             Reacted to "That is why there is..." with 👍

19:01:16 From Ray Bridgewater To Everyone:

             Ray Bridgewater...Is the need for nurses and the necessary support a school needs bigger than Children's Hospital ? What about the role of School Based Health Center ? Everbody seem to be over whelm. You need more Hospitals involved...Overdose or asthma issue is huge in this city...What about Special Needs student? How is that being handle?

19:01:48 From WPerkins’ iPhone To Everyone:

             Love seeing so many w4 principals her tonight! Please email me if you’d like CM Lewis George and I to come visit to check on facilities issues before kids return on 8/28. Eager to support you! Wperkins@dccouncil.gov

19:01:56 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS To Everyone:

             Reacted to "Love seeing so many …" with ❤️

19:03:38 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS To Everyone:

             Replying to "Ray Bridgewater...Is…"

             DC Health manages the relationship with Children’s Hospital as the public health agency for the District. School-based Health Centers have been a blessing, but all high schools don’t have them.

19:04:52 From Julie Lawson To Everyone:

             Cathy- just wanted to say that I had the same questions you did about how the clusters are developed with respect to school size and needs of the students

19:05:27 From WPerkins’ iPhone To Everyone:

             Reacted to "Love seeing so many …" with ❤️

19:05:28 From WPerkins’ iPhone To Everyone:

             Removed a ❤️ reaction from "Love seeing so many …"

19:07:17 From DeAndra Brooks (DME) To Everyone:

             I’ll email the flyers

19:07:25 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS To Everyone:

             Reacted to "I’ll email the flyer…" with ❤️

19:07:41 From Sharona Robinson, DCPS To Everyone:

             Replying to "I’ll email the flyer…"

             Can you send them to me as well?

19:08:48 From Ray Bridgewater To Everyone:

             Ray Bridgewater...DC Health need to rethink how they administer contracts...We are talking about decades of poor results...Education system is hard enough to manage but if you can not protect the health of kids , you have a problem.

19:09:05 From DeAndra Brooks (DME) To Everyone:

             The Boundary Towmhall Information is attached in English and Spanish. Please share with your families.

19:10:02 From DeAndra Brooks (DME) To Everyone:

             Replying to "I’ll email the flyer..."

             Will do!

19:10:34 From Tyra Russell_Shepherd ES To Everyone:

             Reacted to "The Boundary Towmhal..." with 👍

19:14:45 From DeAndra Brooks (DME) To Everyone:

             *Town Hall

19:15:44 From Lyons-LucasSending wishes for an amazing school year to you all!

19:19:07 From Tyra Russell_Shepherd ES To Everyone:

             No

19:19:12 From Tyra Russell_Shepherd ES To Everyone:

             I haven’t heard anything