DC education budget hearing lasts for more than 10 hours, dozens request more funding

WASHINGTON (7News) — More than 200 people signed up to testify, on Monday, regarding the city’s plans for education in the FY23 budget.

“We see our young Black boys being left behind in significant numbers,” said Ward 8 Councilman Trayon White.

“Places like room 111 of Savoy Elementary School continue to leak every time it rains,” said Ward 8 SBOE Rep. Dr. Carlene Reid.

The hearing on education lasted for 10.5 hours.

So far, Mayor Bowser has revealed that she would like to use $43.6 million to replace aging HVACs and boilers in schools, $15 million for preventative maintenance, more than $3 million for mental health, $45 million for a new high school on McArthur Boulevard and more.

But some say that may not be enough, especially to address the learning loss attributed to the pandemic.

“We need action that matches the urgency,” said Regina Bell.

“We thank DCPS and the mayor for giving a 5.87 increase in the per-student formula, however, we have to look at the formula to see if this budget is sufficient enough,” said WTU President Jacqueline Lyons.

Parents like India Patrick are calling for even more school-based mental health programs.

“Specifically improving coordination of care across the system and training for all school staff,” she said,

Following recommendations from committees on the council, the council will then approve the budget, before it heads to the mayor’s desk.