August 20, 2021
Dear Washingtonians,
Throughout the pandemic, I am proud that we have found ways to safely engage our young people in in-person activities:
- Last year, approximately 15,000 students experienced some in-person learning at DCPS
- This summer, nearly 12,000 DCPS students participated in in-person summer learning
- More than 5,700 young people participated in DPR camps and programs
- And more than 5,400 young people had in-person assignments with the 2021 Summer Youth Employment Program
Now, we are expanding this work to bring all of our students back to school. We have taken on many new challenges throughout the course of this pandemic. Returning our young people to school is certainly one of the greatest challenges of this entire experience. And it is not a simple task. But it is worth it. It is worth it so that our kids can be back with their teachers, and their friends, and their coaches and counselors and therapists.
We all want the very best for our young people. We want to keep them safe and healthy. We want to give them joyful experiences. We want to be there for them and help them process the trauma and tragedy of the past two years. And we can. We can make this school year a success. But just like every aspect of this pandemic, it will be a citywide effort. It will require us to be flexible and nimble in our individual and collective responses.
So, my ask of everyone – those who have children in our schools and those who don’t – is to take a pledge. Pledge to do everything you can to make this school year a success. If you are 12 or older, get vaccinated. When you go indoors or in crowded spaces, wear your mask. If you are sick, stay home and get tested. And if you have a child returning to school, consider how your families’ actions will impact the rest of your child’s class or team — limit your activities, skip travel outside the region, and complete the testing consent form.
We owe it to our young people to give them this opportunity to reunite with teachers and friends. I am incredibly grateful for how DC has come together since the earliest days of the pandemic to protect each other and crush the virus. A return to school is the latest challenge we will take on as a community, but like every other challenge we have risen to, we will rise to this one too.
Sincerely,
 Learn more about the health and safety protocols of the upcoming school year in Wednesday's Situational Update.
 On Saturday, August 21, at 1:00 p.m., join Mayor Bowser at the 7th Annual Chuck Brown Day. Chuck Brown Day is a celebration of Brown’s life, as well as the rich and original musical history of the District. Brown’s family will be in attendance with the Chuck Brown Foundation, who will host their annual “Back-to-School Giveaway” at the park.
The event will feature performances by The Chuck Brown Band, Proper Utensils featuring James Funk and Sugar Bear, Still Familiar, Critical Condition Band (CCB), and host, DJ Kool. Food trucks and vendors will be on site as well as a "Kid Fun Zone" with moon bounces and a waterslide. Attendees are recommended to bring a blanket or lawn chair for an afternoon of entertainment and fun.
DC Health will also offer free, on-site COVID-19 vaccinations for residents ages 12 and up. Attendees will be asked to wear a mask during the event, except when actively eating or drinking. Free masks will be available on site.
Learn more HERE.
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 Since 2002, over 8,000 DC veterans have served honorably in Afghanistan. Any veteran struggling with the current situation in Afghanistan should reach out to your fellow veterans or the following services:
- Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1)
- Washington DC VA Medical PTSD Program: (202) 745-8000
- DC Mayor's Office of Veteran's Affairs: (202) 724-5454
People are here to help.
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 Last week, DC Health announced that the District has expanded our at-home vaccination program. Previously, the program was only for residents who were unable to leave their homes. Now, any resident who prefers to get vaccinated at home – for whatever reason – can call 1-855-363-0333 to schedule a free at-home vaccination.
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 On Thursday, August 26, join Mayor Bowser, the Mayor’s Office on Women’s Policy and Initiatives (MOWPI), and the DC Commission for Women on the rooftop of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library to celebrate Women’s Equality Day.
This year, MOWPI ‘s theme, Women of the Movement, will highlight artists who have contributed to the Women’s Suffrage Movement. The celebration will showcase the importance of art and expression in women’s advocacy and civic participation.
Learn more and RSVP HERE.
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