August 17, 2017 | Vol. 3, Issue 33
Dear Washingtonians,
This week, hundreds of students across DC started the new school year, and next week, thousands more will join them.
Today, as we celebrate a second year of gains on the statewide PARCC assessment, I want to acknowledge the crucial work that goes on in our schools each day. Every day throughout the school year, thousands of educators teach, care for, and guide our young people. They arrive to work early and stay late, meticulously planning their days and lessons to ensure that students in their classrooms are given meaningful opportunities to learn and explore. They find ways to teach entire classes of students without forgetting about individual needs and interests. They go above and beyond to ensure the success of their students, to get to know families, and to make school both a place of learning and a place where students feel welcomed and loved.
Washington, DC has the fastest improving urban school district in the country, and we owe our educators endless respect and gratitude for getting us here and for continuing to push forward and find new ways to improve the system and set our young people up for success.
In recognition of the importance that each school day plays in a student's overall success, today, my Administration is launching a new Every Day Counts! effort. Through a multi-agency public awareness campaign, we will work to address the root causes of chronic absenteeism and ensure that all DC families know about and get connected to the resources they need to get to school every day, on time.
We have a lot to look forward to this school year:
Welcome back to school - let's make it the best year yet!
Sincerely,
In 2015, Mayor Bowser expanded the Kids Ride Free program to include rides on Metrorail. On a typical school day, the program covers approximately 40,000 bus and Metrorail trips and saves families hundreds of dollars throughout the school year. Through Kids Ride Free, students are able to ride the Metrobus, DC Circulator, and Metrorail to school and school-related activities for free within Washington, DC.
More than 16,000 students have already loaded their pass for the 2017-2018 school year, ensuring that on the first day of school, their card will be ready to use. To join the program, students must be enrolled in a DC public or public charter school, have a current DC One Card, and pay off any negative fare balance on their card.
Students can check their pass status for the regular school year at dconecard.dc.gov.
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This weekend, the Mayor's Cup Amateur Boxing Tournament returns for three days of boxing excitement. From Friday, August 18 until Sunday, August 20, this historic tournament will showcase some of the most talented amateur boxers in the U.S.
Get your free tickets HERE, and join us to witness the future of boxing!
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On Saturday, August 19, join Mayor Bowser to celebrate the music and memory of Go-Go music legend Chuck Brown at the 3rd Annual Chuck Brown Day.
This afternoon of outdoor fun will include giveaways, refreshments, and live performances by the Chuck Brown Band, EU featuring Sugar Bear, and the We Are One Tribute X-perience Band. And, with school just a few days away, the Chuck Brown Foundation will have their annual back pack giveaway.
Learn more about Chuck Brown Day HERE.
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On Wednesday, August 23, join Mayor Bowser at the 3rd Annual Women's Equality Day Celebration.
Women's Equality Day is celebrated around the country on August 26 to commemorate the day the 19th Amendment, which guaranteed women the right to vote, became law in 1920.
RSVP for the event HERE, and show your support by wearing yellow or gold!
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This week's District Minute features stories about the new teachers' contract and the unveiling of the design and timeline of the new Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge.
The mission of the District of Columbia Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department (FEMS) is to preserve life and promote health and safety through excellent pre-hospital treatment and transportation, fire prevention, fire suppression and rescue activities, and homeland security awareness.
FEMS has an opening for a Heavy Mobile Equipment Mechanic. This position is responsible for inspecting equipment at fire stations, making repairs, and conducting equipment maintenance. All details regarding this vacancy, including qualifications, can be found by visiting the job announcement.
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