Since our inception in 2015, Democrats For Education Reform DC (DFER DC) has become an influential leader and stakeholder in public education in Washington, DC. 

Supporting education champions

DFER DC has a proven record of supporting leaders who champion student-centered policies.

DFER DC has supported 24 elected leaders from the DC State Board of Education to the Mayor of the District of Columbia. Additionally, DFER DC works within our communities to elevate DC residents to leadership positions on Boards, Commissions, and Working Groups.

Advancing student-centered policies 

DFER DC has successfully advocated for the support of student well-being and accelerated learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Key policies include a $41 million investment in high-impact tutoring, expansion of the school-based behavioral health program to all schools, additional funding for students designated as “at-risk” totaling $10.4 million in recurring funding, and increased funding for all schools. 

We have also helped advance policies that will correct longstanding inequities: increased charter facilities funding; innovative co-location policies; structured literacy training for D.C. Public School teachers; an updated education funding adequacy study; support for DCPS and charter educators to own their own house in the District; and a more equitable My School DC lottery. Our work for students is only possible through strong relationships with D.C. elected and appointed officials and key policymakers. 

How to help make a difference

Want to get involved in advocacy? Please email us at dferdc@dfer.org!