Deanwood Citizens Association Invests $18,000 in Local Schools to Boost Academic Achievement
Deanwood, Washington, D.C., [8/26/2024] – The Deanwood Citizens Association (DCA) has demonstrated its commitment to educational excellence by donating $3,000 each to six schools in the Deanwood community and adjacent neighborhoods. This generous initiative aims to support educational advancement and professional development, ultimately enhancing academic achievement in the area.
Principal William Massey of H.D. Woodson High School and Alice Chandler, Brandon McCain, Leron Douglas, Brian Glover on Deanwood Citizens Association's Executive Board
This education grant initiative was made possible through a Community Benefits Agreement established in 2019 between the DCA and Neighborhood Development Group (NDG). NDG, the developer of the 11Hundred Apartments—a mixed-use project at 1100 Eastern Avenue Northeast—brought 63 affordable homes and 3,500 square feet of retail space to Ward 7. However, in order to begin the development, NDG had to displace several local Black-owned businesses that previously occupied the site. As part of their commitment to give back to the Deanwood community, NDG agreed to provide funding for DCA to support our local schools.
The following schools received donations:
Burrville Elementary School
Houston Elementary
Kelly Miller Middle School
Ron Brown High School
H.D. Woodson High School
IDEA Public Charter School
Each institution has specific plans for utilizing the funds:
Burrville Elementary School will enhance parent engagement for early childhood education through monthly Chat n Chew sessions.
Houston Elementary will focus on staff professional development, including restorative practices training.
H.D. Woodson High School will strengthen its Performing Arts Program, supporting students involved in performing arts courses and clubs.
Kelly Miller Middle School will enhance its College and Career Program by funding college tours to provide early access to higher education opportunities.
Ron Brown High School will support its initiatives that engage students and teachers in learning through experience and social interaction.
School leaders expressed their appreciation for this unexpected funding source:
Principal Dr. Chunita Pilgrim (wearing black) of Burville Elementary School and Alice Chandler, Patricia Stamper, Leron Douglas, Brandon McCain, Brian Glover, and Toni Reynolds-Criner on Deanwood Citizens Association's Executive Board
Dr. Chunita Pilgrim, Principal of Burrville Elementary School, stated, "Thank you for taking the time to visit Burrville today and to present us with these funds. You are most appreciated. Looking forward to extending this partnership in the fall."
Principal William Massey of H.D. Woodson High School exclaimed, "We are forever grateful for this!!!!! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!"
While some Ward 7 schools have seen budget increases, they remain underserved compared to schools in Wards 1-6. The DCA's initiative highlights the importance of collaborative partnerships between government agencies, organizations, and developers to ensure that students and teachers in the Deanwood community and East of the Anacostia can thrive without leaving their neighborhood.
This investment by the Deanwood Citizens Association marks a significant step towards educational equity and community empowerment in Ward 7.
About The Deanwood Citizens Association
The Deanwood Citizens Association (DCA), a devoted civic organization founded in 1912 by concerned neighbors, has a rich history deeply intertwined with the development of the Deanwood neighborhood. The DCA tirelessly advocates for and represents the interests of Deanwood residents, with a mission to create a safer, more beautiful, and more connected community for all. Over the years, we have witnessed our members engage in civic activities and community cooperation that have shaped and defined our collective identity. Learn more at deanwoodcitizens.org.
