Mayor Muriel Bowser reflected on her final "first week of school" as mayor, celebrating a successful start to the academic year and thanking educators, staff, and community members for their contributions. The District welcomed tens of thousands of students back to modernized facilities and robust support systems across the city.
Key achievements included the celebration of seven new or modernized school buildings, enhancing learning environments for students. The Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) bus drivers transported over 3,400 students on more than 320 routes, while Kids Ride Free cards recorded over 100,000 taps, ensuring free transportation. Additionally, DC Public Schools (DCPS) launched over 55 afterschool programs and distributed more than 75,000 breakfasts, 110,000 lunches, and 15,000 afterschool meals. Safe Passage Ambassadors were deployed on over 100 routes to ensure student safety.
Mayor Bowser emphasized the importance of attendance, stating, "There are 180 days in the school year, and our educators plan for all 180 days." She urged families to make every day count, highlighting that missing even a few days can impact a student's learning. The city also announced its annual Doggie Day Swim on September 12 at four pools and reminded residents to use their DC SUN Bucks before they expire.
Looking ahead, the DC Government is partnering with Clark | Mortenson | SmootDC (CMS) and the Washington Commanders for the "First & Goal: New Commanders Stadium Construction Kick-Off & Resource Expo" on September 9. This event aims to connect local Certified Business Enterprises (CBEs), small businesses, and contractors with opportunities related to the new stadium project.