Washington Metropolitan Student Support Update – February 2020

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In January, DC Public Schools (DCPS) announced that programming will discontinue at Washington Metropolitan High School. In order to ensure students smoothly transition to their next school or graduate this year, DCPS is providing dedicated supports to students and families during this time. In order to keep the Washington Metropolitan community informed on this work, DCPS will post regular updates to the School Planning Blog. Below is an overview of supports provided to Washington Metropolitan students, families, and staff in February.

Student/Family Supports

  • All Washington Metropolitans students and / or their families (66 middle school and 76 high school) received information regarding school options for the upcoming 2020-2021 School Year. The DCPS Enrollment, Student Supports, and Reengagement teams coordinated these outreach efforts.
  • The My School DC lottery deadline was extended by one month to March 2 for Washington Metropolitan students who are interested in applying to an out-of-boundary or selective school.
  • DCPS teams are continuing to work with students individually to identify their preferences and support a successful transition to their next school. School transitions will not take place until the upcoming 2020-2021 School Year.
  • Reengagement Specialists are conducting home visits to provide additional outreach to students as needed.
  • Students who need full-time Special Education programming will be eligible to transfer to Luke C. Moore next year (or another school with comparable programming).
  • The Mental Health team is developing a “Peace Room” at Washington Metropolitan where students will be supported to practice self-regulation and metal wellness.
  • In March, DCPS will host community outreach events in Wards 7 and 8 for Washington Metropolitan students.

Staff Supports

  • Washington Metropolitan staff members will be included in upcoming DCPS hiring fairs scheduled for April, May, and July.
  • The Teacher Recruitment and Selection team is working with each WTU member at Washington Metropolitan individually to help identify opportunities within DCPS for next school year. They are working conduct early interviews before school vacancies open this spring.
  • The Teacher Recruitment and Selection team compiled staff resumes for DCPS school leaders as they make staffing plans for next year.

Continuing Supports

  • Ahead of the 2020-2021 School Year, DCPS will work with receiving schools through the summer to ensure they have the information they need to best serve their newly enrolled students.
  • Reengagement Specialists from the Graduation Excellence Division will reach out to students regularly over the summer to ensure students are set up for a successful transition and help mitigate any potential barriers. They will also connect students directly with school staff at the receiving school to facilitate a warm welcome and continued support.
  • Transportation will continue next school year as long as the student is eligible per their IEP. It is recommended for the parent to notify the LEA representative designee once they confirmed a new school, address, and contact information.

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