Washington, D.C. students have achieved academic gains in both math and reading for the fourth consecutive year on citywide assessments, building on their national leadership in post-pandemic recovery. This positive news comes as tens of thousands of students across all eight wards prepare to begin the new school year on Monday, August 24, 2026.
To mark the start of the academic year, community members and volunteers are invited to participate in "spirit tunnels" outside schools from 7:45 to 9:00 a.m. on Monday, offering encouragement with pom-poms and positivity. Throughout the weekend, various partners and community organizations are also hosting family-friendly events, including backpack giveaways and school supply distributions at locations like Emery Heights, Serenity Management, and Riggs LaSalle.
Mayor Muriel Bowser urged families to prepare for Sunday night bedtime routines and called on all residents to ensure student safety during commutes. She emphasized the importance of drivers slowing down, watching for pedestrians, and exercising extra caution near schools and buses. "Let's all be ready to show our young people that their city is rooting for them!" Mayor Bowser said.