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Dear Resident,
In this edition of the Jawando Report, I want to pay tribute to a uniquely exciting time of year — graduation season. I have been honored to speak at ceremonies for students of all ages this month. As the Chair of the Education and Culture Committee and an MCPS parent, I share in the profound joy and pride of parents and families celebrating student achievement.
Every graduation is a milestone. It is recognition of personal growth and intellectual advancement, but perhaps even more importantly, it’s a celebration of a new class of leaders, thinkers, creators, and doers.
Education is the cornerstone upon which our society is built. It opens doors to opportunities, fosters innovative thinking, cultivates responsible citizenship, and it empowers us to face the world with an informed and critical mind.
But graduation is also a collective accomplishment, a tribute to the tireless efforts of our educators, the unwavering support of families, and the countless mentors in our community that offer support and guidance. I want to acknowledge not only all of our graduating students, but to each of you who has contributed to educating our young people. So take a moment this week to celebrate our community's graduates and acknowledge the transformative power of education.
Congratulations again to all of our graduates!
Will Jawando
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 Thank you to the Institute for East African Councils on Higher Education for inviting me to speak to over 75 students graduating with support from the program.
 I was thankful to join students and families at the 5th grade completion ceremony of Oak View Elementary School.
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 It was my honor to address the Clarksburg Class of 2023 at their graduation ceremony.
 I've joined in celebrations for graduates around our county.
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 Important worksessions in front of the Montgomery County Council are coming up. The Planning, Housing and Parks Committee takes up the HOME Act (Bill 16-23) on Thursday, June 15 at 1:30pm. The Public Safety Committee takes up the STEP Act on Monday, July 17 at 9:30am. Watch these sessons online at https://youtube.com/MoCoCouncilMD.
 Recognizing Pride Month
This month, we celebrate the extraordinary contributions and advances made by our LGBTQ+ neighbors, friends and family members. We stand together to affirm that love is love, and everyone deserves to live authentically and proudly. Click here to view a schedule of Pride Month events in our community organized by my colleague Council President Evan Glass.
 Wheaton Safety Walk
Thank you to my colleague Councilmember Natali Fani-González for organizing a walk through downtown Wheaton. I was pleased to join the walk to lend my voice as the Wheaton community pushes for important pedestrian safety improvements for Georgia Avenue. Thank you to all of our community members, business leaders and officials that came out to show your support. Special thanks to Governor Wes Moore, MDOT Secretary Paul Wiedefeld, and Secretary of Commerce Kevin Anderson.
 Giving Back
When we help others, we make our communities stronger. Team Jawando volunteered at Shepherd's Table in Silver Spring. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve a warm meal to guests — made possible by the talented chefs, dedicated volunteers, and welcoming staff.
 Recognizing Memorial Day
Memorial Day is such an important day to celebrate the heroic men and women who have served and given the ultimate sacrifice for our country and our communities. I was honored to join the Rotary Clubs of Montgomery Village, Gaithersburg, Historic Emory Grove, and the Gaithersburg City Council for their 10th Annual Flags For Our Heroes event at Bohrer Park.
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 Join me as we acknowledge, educate, and celebrate Juneteenth.
 Many in our community struggle to pay their utility bills. If you've fallen behind on payments, WSSC has launched a temporary "Get Current" program for the month of June to help residents get back on their feet. Read more at https://wsscwater.com/getcurrent.
 Montgomery Planning is working on a plan to improve quality of life along a 3.5-mile stretch of University Boulevard. If you live in the area, join Montgomery Planning to learn more.
 For the first time, Metro is offering reduced fares to assist low-income customers. The "Metro Lift" program launches on June 20. DMV residents who qualify for SNAP are eligible to enroll. Read more here: https://www.wmata.com/about/news/Metro-Lift-launches-June-20.cfm
 Congratulations to all of our 2023 MCPS graduates! This is an important milestone and I wish you success in your future endeavors. You are part of what makes Montgomery County special! Keep striving and I am excited to see your skills and knowledge in action!
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 This June 18th I wish a Happy Father's Day to all the fathers and father figures in our community.
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