DC's 2025 Teacher of the Year

Newsletter Banner
X-logo-4x4

 

FB-logo-40x40

 

IG-logo-40x40

 

 

 

John A. Wilson Building

1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20004

 

Phone: (202) 727-2643
Email: muriel.bowser@dc.gov

Chief of Staff:
Lindsey Parker

City Administrator:
Kevin Donahue

Director of the Mayor's Office of Legal Counsel:
Eugene Adams

Senior Advisor:
Beverly Perry

Director of Mayor's Office of Community Affairs:
Jackie Reyes-Yanes

Scheduling Requests:
mayor.dc.gov/page/invite-mayor

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

October 4, 2024

Letter from the Mayor

Dear Washingtonians,  

We are proud to have the best of the best leading and teaching in our classrooms. And this week, at a very special celebration of National Book Month, I was thrilled to celebrate our 2025 DC Teacher of the Year, Jazzmyne Townsend!

When we talk about how our children are challenged and loved in our schools, it is because of teachers like Ms.Townsend who go above and beyond to make our students feel seen and cared for. Her dedication goes beyond the classroom—she’s a mentor, a published author, and a leader among her colleagues. 

Teacher of the Year

Now, we will be rooting for Ms. Townsend as she competes for the 2025 National Teacher of the Year. 

We’re also proud of our 2025 finalists, who continue to inspire their students and colleagues: 

  • Kiara McCalvin, French teacher at Howard University Middle School of Mathematics and Science 
  • Rahshita Lowe-Watson, kindergarten teacher at John Francis Education Campus 
  • Andrea Baker Barnes-Johnson, special education teacher at Anacostia High School 

I believe that we have the best teachers in the nation in our schools. I'm also proud that this week we reached an agreement with the Washington Teachers' Unionthe third of my Administrationthat will ensure our teachers have the supports and compensation that allow them to bring their best to their classrooms and schools every day. 

Thank you, Ms. Townsend, and thank you to every teacher who makes us #DCproud! 

Sincerely, 

Muriel Bowserpupu

View photos from this week on Facebook

In This Week's Newsletter:

Veggie Giveaway from DPR

asdf

Get fresh and free veggies from DPR’s communal farms! Through November 28, you can pick up local, organic produce at one of three locations across the city. Weather permitting, enjoy kale, collards, lettuce, tomatoes, eggplant, peppers, squash, herbs, flowers, and more!  

  • When: Select dates now through November 28, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
  • Where:
    • Tuesdays at Edgewood Rooftop Farm, 301 Franklin Street NE 
    • Wednesdays at Lederer Garden, 4801 Nannie H. Burroughs Avenue NE 
    • Thursdays at Powell Communal Farm, 3149 16th Street NW
  • More information: DPRveggies.splashthat.com

Back to Top

Save the Date: 17th Street High Heel Race

dasdf

The Annual 17th Street High Heel Race celebrates DC’s LGBTQIA+ community, drawing thousands of spectators to cheer on participants as they race down 17th Street NW. Since its start in 1986, the race has become a symbol of the city's strong LGBTQIA+ culture and continues to grow each year. Filled with lively drag performances and colorful costumes, it’s a can’t-miss DC tradition. 

  • When: Tuesday, October 29
    • Check-in starts at 7:30 p.m
    • Race begins at 9:00 p.m.
  • Where: 17th Street, between R and P Streets NW
  • RSVP: tinyurl.com/2024HighHeelRace 

Back to Top

#BeDowntown this Saturday (10/5): Open Streets 7th Street NW!

Open Streets 7th Street

Residents and visitors are invited to come out and enjoy Open Streets 7th Street NW! Open Streets is a celebration of people-powered fun, transforming District streets into vibrant, car-free spaces perfect for walking, biking, and exploring. Open Streets will include hourly programmed classes and demonstrations, including yoga, dancing, and more. The event is free and suitable for all ages and abilities. No cars, just people!

  • When: Saturday, October 5, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.  
  • Where: 7th Street NW from Rhode Island Avenue to E Street NW 
  • More information: See a map and learn more HERE

Back to Top