We are so proud of the parent leaders who wrote these powerful testimonies and took time out of their day to advocate for the policy solutions they want to see be true in DC. To lift up their voices, we are sharing quotes from their live testimonies during the hearing - we hope they inspire our District leaders and each of us to make sure every decision we make has children and families at the center!
To read parents’ FULL testimonies (include written testimonies MORE parent leaders submitted to the DC Council), visit our website!
OUR VISION: AN EDUCATION SYSTEM THAT PRIORITIZES STUDENT MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS
To ensure that ALL students and their families have readily accessible, high-quality school-based mental health services, supports, and education and is responsive to student needs, we must:
Assess the mental health needs of DC school communities
Generate a comprehensive map of what mental health needs and supports currently exist in each school, including a corresponding gap analysis, and make it public to help create a comprehensive and long-term plan for the future.
Create a strong accountability system
The Deputy Mayor of Education (DME) and the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) should develop clear, publicly transparent, and strong accountability systems for any agency/organization providing mental health supports in schools in partnership with families and youth.
OUR VISION: EVERY FAMILY HAS ACCESS TO A HIGH-QUALITY OST PROGRAM FOR THEIR CHILDREN
All DC children should have the opportunity to participate in an OST program that supports their individual needs, helps them explore their passions and enriches their learning - regardless of income level or where they live. To make this a reality, District leaders must:
Increase funding for OST Programs
(by providing AT LEAST) $25 million in recurring, local funding for OST programs and allocate based on performance-based evaluations to ensure quality.
Create a strategic plan
with families, educators, OST providers and community partners to ensure access to in-demand programs for all kids.
If you want to join these powerful parent leaders in fighting for the needs of our kids, please take TWO MINUTES today to support their voices by adding YOUR name to their petitions calling on DC leaders to make their vision for SBMH supports and OST programs in DC a reality!
Want to join the movement for #ParentPriorites? Click here to email our Team to learn about how you can get involved!
