The Bowser Administration has proposed to cut funding for Community Schools in the 2025 budget plan. This decision has been met with concern by a coalition of organizations, including Mary’s Center, the Latin American Youth Center, the Washington Teachers Union, EmpowerEd, and School Talk (see picture). Collectively we visited several councilmember offices in the Wilson Building: Chairman Mendelson, Councilmembers R. White (At-Large), Bonds (At-Large), Henderson (At-Large), McDuffie (At-Large), Nadeau (Ward 1), Pinto (Ward 2), Frumin (Ward 3), George (Ward 4), Parker (Ward 5), Allen (Ward 6), Gray (Ward 7), Parker and T. White (Ward 8), urging them to reverse the proposed elimination of the Community Schools funding.
The proposed cuts are particularly alarming in light of the high truancy rates recorded during the last academic year. Six out of ten high school students in the District missed more than 10% of school days during the 2023-2024 academic year. The potential loss of this funding would have dire implications for students, families, and the community who rely on Community School coordinators for support. For instance, students would be deprived of crucial information about school and community resources, and assistance with navigating health services and promoting family involvement in school activities could also become more challenging. The withdrawal of Community Schools funding could exacerbate truancy rates, further complicating our community’s educational and social issues.
Therefore, we respectfully ask that the Mayor and Council reinstate funding for Community Schools next year. The future of our children depends on it.