Improving Education

Changing the Frame of Reference for Education

Councilmember Brown believes that in order to meet the difficult challenges ahead, children, parents, and schools need the right resources. He authored and introduced new laws and legislation including:

•Authored the School Modernization Financing Act of 2005 (A16-341) providing $3 billion in revenue bonds for the reconstruction and repair of schools.
•Introduced the School Modernization Funds Resolution of 2007 approving $30 million in funds to build the Phelps Architecture, Construction and Engineering Academy.
•Authored the Mayor’s Youth Leadership Institute Act of 2005 (A16-152) providing $1.9 million to allow over 400 youths to participate in the program and stay on campus at George Washington University.
•Authored the “Creative Learning Program Act of 2008” (B17-592) to make it mandatory that all elementary schools in the District have music, physical education, and visual arts programs starting in the 2008-2009 school year.

The Parental Engagement Pledge

This year, Councilmember Brown created the Parental Engagement Pledge to encourage community participation in the education of our children. After all, a child’s education starts with the people who care the most, the family. Parents can help create a brighter future for our children by committing to volunteer for 10 hours at their local school.

By signing the pledge, parents also commit to getting 5 more parents involved, reviewing homework, participating in Teacher Parent Conferences, and encouraging their child to explore all academic interests.

That’s a positive step forward for families in the District. Click here to download a copy of the pledge.

Music, PE, and Arts for All

Councilmember Brown introduced legislation in January 2008 that would require the Mayor and the Chancellor to implement a “Creative Learning Program” in all District elementary schools to take effect during the 2008-2009 school year. The legislation would make mandatory that each school be provided with music, physical education, and visual arts programs. The “District of Columbia Creative Learning Program Act of 2008” (B17-592) was cosponsored by all Councilmembers present at the meeting of the Committee of the Whole including Councilmembers Alexander, Bowser, Catania, Cheh, Evans, Graham, Gray, Mendelson, Schwartz and Wells.

When he introduced the legislation Brown asked, “How is it that we can spend over a $1 billion on education and fail to provide a music teacher in every school in the District? Schools shouldn’t have to hold fundraisers to pay for music and arts programs. I’m going to fight hard for this legislation and continue working to improve our educational system.”

Ombudsman and Wraparound Services

When Deputy Mayor for Education Victor Reinoso was confirmed by the City Council earlier this year, Councilmember Brown urged him to focus on creating an Ombudsman’s office and wrap-around services. As part of the Public Education Reform Amendment Act of 2007 (A17-38), Reinoso was tasked with creating an Ombudsman’s office to collect feedback and concerns from parents and citizens in the community.

Recognizing Student Achievement

For three straight years, Councilmember Brown awarded Most Improved Student Award to deserving male and female students in every high school in the district. The students received a US treasury bond for their hard work and dedication.

Congressional Award Foundation

Brown is the first Councilmember to be a member of the Congressional Award Foundation Board of Directors. The Congressional Award is the U.S. Congress' award for young Americans. It is non-partisan, voluntary, and non-competitive. The program is open to all 14- to 23-year-olds.

Other Important Education Initiatives