Get to know your Ombuddies in Education, read about what families and schools need to know for School Year 2023-24.

January Announcements

The Office of the Ombudsman for Public Education is pleased to welcome Ms. DaShae Willis to the team as our new Program Associate. DaShae is a DC Native with years of experience in education. She earned her Master's in Education Leadership and Policy from American University. DaShae has the desire to continue being impactful to both students and their families outside of the classroom. Her unique skills and perspective will undoubtedly enrich our team, and we look forward to the invaluable contributions she'll make!

The Office of the Ombudsman for Public Education is pleased to welcome Ms. Jenifer Souza-Dodds to the team as our new Special Education Assistant Ombudsman. Jenifer was previously a member of our DC Special Education Hub. Jenifer received her MA from Georgetown University in Educational Transformation with a focus on Advocacy & Policy. Jenifer has extensive experience in special education. She is committed to connecting students and families with the knowledge and resources they need to successfully navigate special education. Jenifer's skills and expertise are going to amplify our collaborative efforts. We are looking forward to witnessing her contributions and the positive impact she will have on students and their families.

How We Serve

The DC Office of the Ombudsman for Public Education is a confidential and informal resource that helps resolve issues between DC families and traditional public and public charter schools.

We work to resolve issues in all areas that affect student learning, including bullying and student safety, discipline, special education, attendance, enrollment, academic progress, and communication barriers.

If you or someone you know has any questions or concerns, contact us at 202-741-0886.

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Happy New Year, DC!

On behalf of the DC Office of the Ombudsman for Public Education, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the public for your unwavering support. Your engagement, feedback, and dedication to improving education in our community are invaluable. Your commitment fuels our efforts to advocate for equitable and quality education for all students in the District of Columbia. Your contributions and collaboration empower us to address concerns, navigate challenges, and strive for positive change within the public education system. Thank you for standing beside us as we work together to create better learning opportunities and brighter futures for our students, and shared dedication in ensuring all DC students receive a fair and quality education. Our stakeholders are the driving forces behind the office's success and we couldn't have accomplished much of the work without YOU!

The 2022-23 school year was a year marked by many transitions and constant change for the office. However, nothing stopped the staff from meeting the mark. Here are just a few of our invaluable contributions to the DC educational ecosystem.

- The Sped Hub published sixteen family-facing policy resources, launched the Spanish training series, and more.

- OMB launched the Student-to-Student Conflict Resolution Pilot Program

- We collectively managed over 800 cases and identified educational injustices

- We increased our digital footprint via email marketing, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram

- AND SO MUCH MORE....

As we look ahead, we will carry forward this momentum with RENEWED enthusiasm and ambition. The future holds exciting challenges and opportunities, and we're confident that together, we will continue to achieve greater for DC families. 

International Day of Education

The International Day of Education, celebrated annually on January 24th, recognizes the significance of education in advancing global peace, development, and human rights. Established by the United Nations General Assembly, this day aims to promote inclusive and equitable quality education for all, emphasizing its crucial role in achieving sustainable development goals. It serves as a platform to raise awareness about the need for accessible education, advocate for policies that support learning opportunities, and honor the efforts of educators worldwide. The day underscores the transformative power of education in shaping societies and fostering a brighter future for individuals and communities across the globe.

The DC Office of the Ombudsman for Public Education contributes to the International Day of Education by amplifying awareness about education-related issues within the District of Columbia. We participate in events, and workshops to highlight the importance of education, advocate for equitable access to quality education for all students, and address concerns within the public education system. We collaborate with schools, community organizations, and stakeholders to promote inclusive learning environments and engage in dialogue about policies that can enhance education outcomes.

Mental Wellness Month
Mental Wellness Month is a fantastic initiative dedicated to raising awareness about mental health and well-being. It's a time to promote understanding, support, and resources for mental health, aiming to break stigmas and encourage conversations about mental wellness.

During Mental Wellness Month, various events, campaigns, and educational programs often take place to emphasize the importance of self-care, stress management, seeking help when needed, and fostering a positive mental state. It's an opportunity for individuals and organizations to offer support, share resources, and advocate for mental health awareness and access to mental health services.

If you are not already, follow us on Twitter @DCOmbuds and Instagram @dc.ombudsman

December at a Glance

Outreach Attended in December

- DYRS Community Resource Fair December 1, 2023, from 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm. This event took place at the R.I.S.E Demontration Center. DYRS youth and their families were able to engage and learn about the different programs, services and resources available to them.

- EdFest Grades PK3 - 8th December 2, 2023, from 10:00 am - 1:00 pm. This event took place at the DC Stadium Armory. EdFest is DC's annual public school fair that provides DC families an opportunity to meet with represenatives from and learn about public schools and education agencies in DC.

- EdFest Grades 9th - 12th December 9, 2023 from 10:00 am - 1:00 pm. This event took place at Eastern Senior High School. EdFest is DC's annual public school fair that provides DC families an opportunity to meet with represenatives from and learn about public schools and education agencies in DC.

Want us to come to your neighborhood event? Contact  [email protected].