Contact: Melissa Salmanowitz (DCPS) | 202-535-1096 | Contact Email

WASHINGTON, D.C. (DEC. 05, 2014) – Today, District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) Chancellor Kaya Henderson issued the following statement as the city mourns Marion Barry, the late Ward 8 Councilmember and former Mayor of the District of Columbia:

“As we celebrate and honor Marion Barry’s life and contributions to this city, we also mourn the loss of a legend. At Council hearings, his questions may have appeared to others as harsh, or intense. But every inquiry, every scrutiny, along with every compliment, was rooted in a commitment to equity from a man who dedicated his life to public service.  His fight for this city empowered generations and transformed neighborhoods. Mr. Barry was a brilliant man, evident in his easy and uncanny recollection of any of the laws he wrote and helped shepherd through Council.  His life was shaped by persistence and resilience, and his career was devoted to the promise and possibility of those too often ignored or cast aside.  I know Heaven is a little more fun with my friend Mr. Barry looking down on us. Rest in peace, Mayor for Life and thank you.”

On Thursday, DCPS schools in Ward 8 hosted tributes to honor Mr. Barry. At 2:30, students and school staff across Ward 8 released balloons and remembered Mr. Barry’s life and his work.

To view more photos from yesterday’s event, click the photo below.