DCPS: Where Educators Inspire and Students Shine!
Chancellor's NewsletterThis message was shared with DCPS families and staff on May 15, 2026.
Dear DC Public Schools (DCPS) Community,
Across the district, Teacher Appreciation Week was filled with heartwarming moments honoring our incredible educators. One I’d like to highlight is my visit with Ms. Lauren Tate at Langley Elementary School, a teacher who has served and inspired DCPS students for 30 years.
Through creative, hands-on activities like integrating art into math to teaching science in the school garden, Ms. Tate exemplifies what it means to put students first.
“Ms. Tate’s love for children is the foundation of her work.”
That same sentiment shared by Ms. Tate’s school principal is reflected throughout our classrooms by more than 4,900 DCPS teachers who inspire meaningful learning experiences—from empowering high schoolers to tackle real-world problems to leading acts of service.
Keep reading to see how educators celebrated their milestone years of service, supported students’ postsecondary success, helped the Washington Nationals to a 15-2 victory over the Minnesota Twins, and more!
In partnership,
Lewis D. Ferebee, Ed.D.
Chancellor, DC Public Schools
DCPS Highlights
DCPS Brings the Natitude ⚾
Students, staff, and families showed up in full force at DCPS Night at Nationals Park to be the good luck charm for the home team! From Chancellor Ferebee’s first pitch to our 2026 Standing Ovation Excellence in Education awardees at the Presidents’ Race finish line, it was a night to remember.
Honoring DCPS Educators🍎
DCPS proudly celebrated Teacher Appreciation Week by honoring educators across the district for their years of service and impact. The Teacher Milestone Reception kicked off leadership visits recognizing long‑serving educators across the district and honoring the dedication that makes DCPS the fastest improving urban school district in the nation.
Knocking Math Out the Park 🧮
Mathletes from elementary, middle, and high school came together for the first-ever Capital Math Classic, a citywide mathematics competition featuring rigorous challenges in algebra, geometry, number sense, and problem-solving. In team-based rounds, students demonstrated strong math skills while applying the concepts they learned in the classroom.
The Class of 2026 Shares What’s Next 🎓
The Class of 2026 reached an exciting milestone as they look ahead to the next chapter. High school seniors across the district marked Senior Decision Day by declaring their postsecondary plans—college, career, and beyond—and highlighting their goals and aspirations for the future.
School Stories
Student Art Takes Flight🎨✈️
Before visitors step into our city, they’ll step into the world as seen by DCPS middle school students. Photographs captured by 35 students are now on display as part of the “Everyday DC” exhibit along the Youth Art Walk, showcasing creative perspectives on daily life in Washington, DC. The exhibition will remain on view through May 2027.
One Business at a Time💡✈️
Confidence and financial literacy were in action as students showcased and sold products they developed at Ballou High School’s 4th Annual NextGen Marketplace. Through 3DE by Junior Achievement, which connects learning to real-world business experiences, Ballou Knights gained the skills to turn ideas into real opportunities.
Important Dates
- May 18–22: Partnership Appreciation Week
- May 19: DCPS Afterschool Registration Opens
- May 19 & 20: DCPS Goes to College Events
- May 25: Memorial Day–DCPS Closed
Family Opportunities
- Next Stop: Math— Family Math Nights happening at Deal Middle School (May 19) and C.W. Harris Elementary School (May 27).
- DCPS Out of School Time Programs (OSTP) Registration: Afterschool registration for School Year 2026–2027 opens on May 19 at 10 a.m. OSTP runs at 55 DCPS schools, offering PK–8 students free academic support and enrichment beyond the school day. Please register early to secure a spot. Visit most.dc.gov to learn more. (will link a social media post)
- Post-Lottery Applications Now Available: Families who missed the DC school lottery can still apply to DCPS for School Year 2026–2027 through the My School DC post‑lottery application. Applications are accepted online at myschooldc.org.
DCPS Socials
Follow along on DCPS social media to see more stories and celebrations!
