August 24, 2011

Thank you for your support and patience 

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DCPS Parents and Families:

On Tuesday, August 24, 2011, the entire Mid-Atlantic region experienced an earthquake that caused a great deal of disruption to our work and home lives.  Tonight, I am pleased to announce that we expect all DCPS schools to be open and safe for return tomorrow morning, with the exception of the School Without Walls High School in Ward 2.

Parents, you’ve often heard me talk about what I believe it takes to create great schools.  But I really want you to know, before great teachers and before great classroom instruction, it is imperative that DCPS create and maintain a safe and welcoming environment where teachers, principals, parents and students can achieve great things.

I apologize for any burden placed upon DCPS families by today’s closure of our schools.  The decision to close Wednesday was made after careful deliberation and consultation with the Mayor’s Office, the Office of Public Education Facilities Modernization, and twenty-five teams of structural engineers who are surveying each and every site. 

I believed then and I believe now, the right decision was to ensure the complete safety of everyone who enters our buildings.  I encourage you to continue monitoring the status of our schools through your cell phones, through our social media channels, and the DCPS website.

Thank you for your support and your patience.  You are a vital part of the DCPS community.

Sincerely,

Kaya Henderson
Chancellor