Newsroom

Statement on the Mayor’s Announcement of Full Funding for Early Learning Programs in FY26 Budget

Today, Mayor Bowser announced full Fiscal Year 26 funding for the Pre-K Enhancement and Expansion Program (PKEEP), the Early Childhood Educator Pay Equity Fund (Pay Equity Fund), and the DC Child Care Subsidy Program. I applaud the mayor and her team for their efforts to secure funding for these important programs that directly benefit working families and educators in Ward 3 and across the District. I know firsthand with my own family how critical they are for DC to continue to grow, thrive, and be a welcoming place to raise children. Significant credit for this announcement is owed to all those who advocated to protect funding for PKEEP, the Pay Equity Fund, and the Child Care Subsidy, including many Ward 3 parents, school staff, and Advisory Neighborhood Commissions. I heard from numerous constituents about how cuts to these programs would be devasting, and I advocated on their behalf to the mayor to maintain funding in the upcoming budget. Thank you to those residents who made their voices heard. As we go forward with the budget…

READ MORE

Hearing on Councilmember Frumin’s Universal Out-of-School Time Bill

On Thursday, November 21, 2024, Chairman Phil Mendelson and the Council Committee of the Whole (COW) held a hearing on legislation Councilmember Frumin introduced, the “Universal Out-of-School Time Amendment Act of 2023,” as well as general oversight of out-of-school time (OST) programs. OST provides students with engaging programs, and improves attendance and safety. Currently, there aren't enough OST seats for every student, but there is broad support - including in the administration - to meet these needs. Councilmember Frumin's bill offers a road map to access for all students. Thanks to Chairman Mendelson for holding the hearing on the bill and oversight of OST programs, and thanks to witnesses who took time from their day to testify to how impactful these programs are for students. View the meeting information: https://dccouncil.gov/event/committee-of-the-whole-public-hearing-136/ Watch the hearing: https://www.youtube.com/embed/dvAs4hAUl2Y See the full legislation: https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Legislation/B25-0630  

READ MORE

Ward 3 For All – FY25 Budget: Schools

Fully Fund Our Schools and Invest in District Youth Delivering excellent educational opportunities is a compelling equity, economic development, and public safety imperative. We must ensure our kids can get to and from school safely, that once they are in school, they are fully served, and fundamentally that our educational system provides a safe, nurturing, constructive path to a brighter future. Toward that end, the budget fully funds our schools and supports educators through retention, enrichment, and advancement.

READ MORE

Evaluating the FY25 Budget Read the newsletter on the FY25 budget