The recent Budget Oversight Hearing for the District of Columbia's Public Works and Operations Committee highlighted the critical need for continued funding of the DC School Connect program, which provides safe transportation for students in Wards 7 and 8. Chairperson Brianne Nadeau and committee members listened to passionate testimonies from parents, educators, and community leaders advocating for the program's $6 million budget allocation for fiscal year 2026.

The DC School Connect program was identified as a vital resource for ensuring the safety and well-being of students who often face dangerous conditions while commuting to school. Parents and school leaders reported alarming incidents of violence and trauma experienced by students on public transportation, emphasizing that the program not only improves attendance but also enhances students' mental health and academic performance.

Tara Brown, a parent leader, shared her personal story of her daughter's traumatic experiences on public transit, underscoring the necessity of safe passage for children. "Safe passage is not just a buzzword; it is a necessity," she stated, urging the committee to prioritize funding for the program. Similarly, Naya White, principal of Congress Heights Campus, described how DC School Connect has acted as a "massive safety and security blanket" for students, significantly reducing incidents of violence during school commutes.

Testimonies from various stakeholders highlighted the program's effectiveness in addressing chronic absenteeism, which currently affects nearly 40% of students in the district. Data presented during the hearing indicated that schools utilizing DC School Connect have seen improvements in student attendance and reductions in behavioral incidents.

The committee also discussed potential improvements to the program, including targeting students with the greatest needs and enhancing communication between schools and families to streamline enrollment and route management. Many advocates called for an expansion of the program to serve more students, particularly those traveling from Wards 7 and 8 to schools in other areas.

As the hearing concluded, the overwhelming consensus among parents, educators, and community leaders was clear: maintaining and expanding the DC School Connect program is essential for ensuring that all students in the district have safe and reliable access to education. The committee's decision on the budget allocation will significantly impact the lives of many families, particularly those in underserved communities.