Neighbors, This week, the D.C. Council held the first legislative meeting of Council Period 26, marking the official start of the Council's work for..

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Neighbors,

This week, the D.C. Council held the first legislative meeting of Council Period 26, marking the official start of the Council's work for 2025. As we begin this new chapter, we’re focusing on important issues that affect our community—like affordable housing, education, and public safety.

One key development this week was the unanimous approval of the new Washington Teachers' Union (WTU) contract, which underscores our continued commitment to supporting educators and improving our public education system.

This week, we worked to set the tone for a productive year, continuing the important work we began last year and addressing new priorities. I’m excited to collaborate with my colleagues and the community to make this a year of progress and positive change for the District.

In service,
Kenyan
Legislative Updates
First Legislative Meeting of 2025!

Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie Supports New Teachers’ Contract

On January 7, 2025, the D.C. Council unanimously approved a new five-year contract between the Washington Teachers' Union (WTU) and D.C. Public Schools (DCPS). Here’s what you need to know:
* The contract was introduced by Council Chairman Phil Mendelson on behalf of Mayor Muriel Bowser.
* It formalizes the agreement reached between WTU and DCPS last year.
* Key focus: Improving working conditions and pay for teachers.

Pay Increases:
* The contract includes significant pay raises for teachers, with increases of 5% in FY2025, 4% in FY2026, and 3% in FY2027.
* Teachers in Washington, DC will see salary increases that reflect their hard work and the value they bring to our schools.
* The new contract also includes improvements to benefits and better support for teachers in the classroom.

What This Means:
* Better pay for teachers, helping to retain and attract high-quality educators.
* Improved working conditions for teachers, creating a better learning environment for students.
* Increased support for teachers through updated benefits, resources, and job security.

I was proud to support this contract because:
* Supporting teachers is key to supporting our students and their future.
* As Chair of the Committee on Business and Economic Development, I know that a strong education system is vital for our city's success.


** Team McDuffie In The Community
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Tour Educare DC (Early Childhood Education program in Wards 7 & 8)

Team McDuffie Visits Educare DC: Advancing Early Childhood Education in Wards 7 & 8

On Thursday, January 9th, I traveled with Team McDuffie to tour Educare DC, an impactful Early Childhood Education program serving families in Wards 7 & 8. The tour was an enlightening opportunity to see firsthand the innovative work being done to support young children and families in our community.

We were warmly welcomed by Jamal Berry, the President and CEO of Educare, who led us through an informative and engaging tour of the facility. We were introduced to a few of the incredible Educare DC staff and had the opportunity to hear directly from an Educare parent, who shared personal stories and insights about her experiences within the District's early care and education system and how she decided to choose Educare for her young child's early development.


** Highlights of the Visit:
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Overview of Educare DC's Advocacy Agenda:
Educare DC plays a crucial role in advocating for policies that support quality early childhood education and help ensure every child has a strong start. During the visit, we discussed their ongoing advocacy efforts and how they work to build partnerships with local organizations and policymakers to strengthen the early education system in the District.

Pay Equity Fund Discussion:
We also talked about the importance of the Pay Equity Fund, which supports the educators who play a vital role in shaping young minds. The discussions underscored the need for fair compensation to attract and retain skilled educators, ultimately ensuring that all children receive the high-quality education they deserve.

Classroom Observation:
One of the most memorable parts of the tour was observing an infant classroom, where we saw how Educare's curriculum promotes early learning in a nurturing, supportive environment. It was clear that the educators are not only dedicated but also well-trained to meet the unique needs of the children they care for.

Facility Tour:
The facility tour itself was incredibly informative. Educare’s facilities were well-equipped and designed to foster an environment of learning and safety. One aspect that really stood out to me was the Parent Boards located outside each classroom. These boards clearly outlined the class’s daily schedule, school calendar, messages to parents, lesson plans, and even what children would be fed that day. This transparency helps parents stay connected with what’s happening in their child’s day-to-day learning experience.


** Looking Ahead:
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The work that Educare DC is doing is vital to the future of our community, especially in Wards 7 & 8, where access to quality early childhood education is critical. I’m excited to continue supporting initiatives that improve early education access and ensure every child has the resources they need to thrive.
Station DC's How We Win Summit

On Wednesday, January 8th, I spoke at DC Station's How We Win Summit, where I joined over 250 leaders from startups, venture capital, government, industry, and the military. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with individuals across the tech ecosystem, and I was excited to engage with so many passionate people who are shaping the future of technology in DC. One of the key figures at the event was James Barlia, a startup veteran and the executive director of Station DC, our city’s innovative tech incubator. James, with his extensive experience as a venture adviser, plays an essential role in driving the growth of DC's tech ecosystem.

The event centered on how our city can embrace innovation and continue to maintain America's leadership in frontier technology. I emphasized that my office is here to collaborate and support the growth of the tech industry in DC, ensuring the city remains a global leader in emerging technologies.
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Event Highlights:

Key Attendees:
* Deputy Mayor Nina Albert
* 25 startups
* 10 out-of-town investors

Networking Opportunity:
Attendees enjoyed a breakfast session, providing a unique chance to connect with leaders from various sectors.
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What I Discussed in My Remarks:

During my remarks, I highlighted key themes that reflect our ongoing commitment to innovation and the growth of DC’s tech ecosystem:
* Investment in Innovation:
I spoke about the $2 million investment in Station DC, our city’s new tech incubator, which came through my Committee on Business and Economic Development. Of this amount, $500,000 is allocated for FY2024, and $1.5 million is designated for FY2025. This funding underscores our commitment to building a vibrant tech community.
* Commitment to Startups:
The funding we are allocating reflects our deep commitment to creating a thriving ecosystem for startups, particularly those in the emerging tech industry.
* Partnerships for Success:
I emphasized the importance of collaboration between policymakers, the executive branch, and the tech industry. These partnerships are essential for ensuring that DC leads in frontier technologies.
* Global Leadership:
I reaffirmed DC’s unique position to drive global leadership in fields such as AI, synthetic biology, and robotics, helping to secure America’s role as a global leader in these transformative technologies.

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Looking Ahead:
The event was an incredible opportunity for participants to connect, share insights, and explore the future of innovation in DC. We are committed to ensuring that our city remains at the forefront of technological advancement.


** Small Business Spotlight
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East City Bookshop (Ward 6)

This week, I’d like to highlight East City Bookshop, a woman-owned business that has become a true gem in the Capitol Hill community. Founded by Laurie Gillman in 2016, the bookstore has quickly established itself as a hub for literary events, local authors, and community engagement. Laurie, with her background in publishing, opened East City Bookshop with the goal of creating a welcoming space where readers could come together, explore new books, and share their love of stories.

Here’s how East City Bookshop is making an impact:
* Support for Local Authors: The bookstore places a strong emphasis on showcasing D.C. authors, providing them with a platform for book signings, readings, and events.
* Community Engagement: East City Bookshop hosts a wide range of events, including book clubs, author talks, and children’s programs, helping to build a sense of community around reading and learning.
* Inclusive Programming: Laurie ensures that the store offers a diverse selection of books and events, creating an inclusive environment where readers of all backgrounds can feel represented and celebrated.

In addition to offering a wide selection of books, East City Bookshop is a gathering place for neighbors, families, and book lovers to connect and engage in meaningful conversations. Laurie Gillman’s vision has turned the bookstore into more than just a place to buy books—it’s a cultural cornerstone of D.C. that fosters creativity, literacy, and a love of reading for all ages.

Visit East City Bookshop:
* Location: 645 Pennsylvania Ave SE, Washington, D.C. 20003
* Website: East City Bookshop ([link removed])

Upcoming Events in the Community
DPW - Trash Collection Update
DC Comprehensive Plan Virtual Meeting with the Office of Planning

Upcoming Virtual Session: The Future of DC's Comprehensive Plan

Date: Friday, January 31st, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM
Hosted By: DC Office of Planning (OP)

Join the Office of Planning for a virtual session on the future of DC's Comprehensive Plan. This is a rare opportunity to help shape the city’s growth for the next generation.

Why Attend? In 2025, the Office of Planning will launch the first full rewrite of the Comprehensive Plan in nearly 20 years. This process will tackle the District’s challenges and opportunities, ensuring equitable growth and resilient neighborhoods. Learn more about the plan's impact and review the 2050 paper outlining DC’s vision.

Get Involved:
* Plan Details: Comprehensive Plan Website ([link removed])
* Register Here: Virtual Meeting Registration ([link removed])

Don’t miss this chance to contribute to DC’s future!

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