Democrats for Education Reform D.C. Announces 2024 General Election Candidate Endorsements
Four Candidates Align with DFER DC's Vision for Student Success
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Victor Horton, victor@dfer.org
Washington, DC (October 10, 2024) — Today, Democrats for Education Reform D.C. (DFER D.C.) endorsed four candidates in the general election who align with key educational priorities, including enhancing literacy, math skills, student attendance, college pathways, and public school choice.
"In this critical election year, with D.C. students lagging behind their peers nationwide in proficiency and with widening opportunity gaps for Black and brown students, the stakes for education and home rule couldn't be higher," said Jessica Giles, executive director of DFER D.C. "The leaders we choose at every level must be ready to fight for the educational rights of all D.C. students. These endorsed candidates are equipped to lead and are deeply committed to advocating for substantial and equitable improvements in public education.”
2024 General Election Endorsed Candidates:
Wendell Felder, D.C. Council, Ward 7
Wendell Felder is a proud fourth-generation Washingtonian and dedicated community leader in Ward 7. He is committed to ensuring all students have access to a variety of high-quality educational programming, including dual enrollment, vocational education, special education, and dual language. Beyond his professional role as the Director of Regional Affairs at Howard University, Felder has actively enhanced literacy through partnerships with Little Free Libraries D.C. and by chairing the Washington Literacy Center's Advisory Group. Mr. Felder is poised to continue the legacy of Councilmember Vincent C. Gray, advocating tirelessly for the needs and opportunities of Ward 7’s children and families once elected.
Dr. Jacque Patterson, D.C. State Board of Education, At-Large (Re-election)
With over 25 years dedicated to education reform, Dr. Jacque Patterson has a remarkable record of community service, from serving five terms as an Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner in Ward 8 to his impactful roles in local education agencies and community organizations like Martha’s Table. As the current Vice President of the State Board of Education, he has effectively championed dual enrollment programs, including the introduction and passage of SR12-13, “Recommending a Greater Commitment to Dual Enrollment Programs.” He helped to lead an update of social studies standards and is pushing for a high-quality education to be considered a civil right, ensuring that students from all backgrounds have access to the resources they need to succeed. Dr. Patterson’s unwavering commitment to educational excellence and equity makes him the ideal candidate to continue fighting for the academic success of every student in the District.
Allister Chang, D.C. State Board of Education, Ward 2 (Re-election)
Allister Chang is one of the foremost voices for literacy in D.C. Recognizing the critical drop in English Language Arts scores during the pandemic, Chang spearheaded a comprehensive overhaul of literacy education across the District, and actively advocated for high-impact tutoring an evidence-based strategy to support students’ academic recovery. His efforts include leading the Early Literacy Education Task Force and the successful passage of SR-22-12, "On Early Literacy Priorities." Chang's global contributions to education have also been notable. As the former executive director of Libraries Without Borders, he significantly expanded access to educational resources for underserved communities worldwide.
LaJoy Johnson-Law, D.C. State Board of Education, Ward 8
As a dedicated advocate and mother of a school-age child, Johnson-Law has experienced firsthand the gaps in our public education system, particularly in underserved areas east of the river. For over twelve years, Johnson-Law has served in many leadership positions, including as a Boundary Study Advisory Member, PAVE Board Member, and E.L. Haynes Public Charter School Board Member. She is deeply committed to enhancing parental engagement and choice, ensuring equitable funding, and improving special education supports and services. With her focus on accountability, resource equity, and a student-centered approach, LaJoy Johnson-Law is poised to be a transformative force on the D.C. State Board of Education.
Earlier this year, DFER D.C. also proudly announced endorsements for Brooke Pinto, D.C. Council, Ward 2, and Dr. Adeoye “Oye” Owolewa, U.S. Representative, who will also be on the November ballot.
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About Democrats for Education Reform DC
Democrats for Education Reform DC (DFER DC) is the District’s leading political organization building a pipeline of Education Reform Champions who are committed to ensuring our public education system justly and equitably serves all students. Learn more at www.dferdc.org.
