Entering January 2024
Dear Neighbor,
I’m honored to be starting a new year as your Ward 2 representative on the DC State Board of Education (DCSBOE).
My top priority is to advance literacy for all DC students. My latest op-ed in the DC Line celebrates the achievements of OSSE’s Early Literacy Education Task Force & argues that DC must follow-through on the task force's recommendations. I co-authored this op-ed with DCSBOE President and Ward 7 Representative Eboni-Rose Thompson & appreciate the support of all my DCSBOE colleagues to continue prioritizing literacy.
In 2024, it is also my goal to ensure that DC builds strong education standards regarding financial literacy and social-emotional learning. I’m looking for feedback on the two standards from DC families as well as from neighbors who have expertise/experience in the subjects. Would you please take a look and share your feedback with me?
I also commit to continuing to amplify student voices. Dozens of Ward 2 students from School Without Walls have been testifying at the previous two public meetings. I’m starting off 2024 inspired by the students’ engagement, their vision, and the thoroughness of their research.
Please continue sharing your feedback about the Deputy Mayor of Education’s Boundary and School Assignment Study. I’ve found this tool helpful to visualize the DME’s recommendations. I’m also seeking feedback about OSSE’s DC School Report Card. Please click around their website and let me know what you think works (or doesn’t).
Please join me in congratulating BASIS DC Ward 2 educator Kelly Maranchuck for winning the Milken Educator Award, which comes with a $25,000 prize!
It was great to speak about my work with the DCSBOE on a panel at Howard University alongside the Chair of Howard’s Political Science Department and the Director of DC Votes.
The DCSBOE’s next public meeting is on January 17th, 2024. My colleagues and I learn a lot from public testimonies, and I hope you’ll consider signing up to testify.
Wishing you and your families a fresh start to 2024,
Allister