This article is part of WTOP’s 2026 Back to School coverage.
Heading into the new school year, WTOP sent questionnaires to and requested interviews with school leaders across the D.C. region.
Here’s what D.C. Public Schools interim Chancellor Kim Jackson said about the priorities and challenges facing the district as the 2026-27 academic year begins.
What are you most looking forward to during the upcoming 2026-27 academic year?
Jackson: DCPS remains focused on its first-in-the-nation academic recovery, as highlighted in the 2025 Education Scorecard. In select schools across all eight wards, DCPS will pilot a new high-quality curriculum for early childhood and ELA.
We will continue to expand access to CTE beginning in middle school and increase dual enrollment by offering college courses free of charge to high school students.
What is the biggest challenge your school district is facing during the upcoming 2026-27 academic year?
Jackson: Chronic absenteeism remains a national challenge. At DCPS, we have seen reductions in truancy thanks to targeted programs implemented with city partners, like the Truancy Reduction Pilot.
The district also participates in the Parent and Adolescent Support Services program, managed by the D.C. Department of Human Services, providing intensive case management to truant students and their families.
What impact, if any, do you expect federal funding cuts to have on your school system for the upcoming 2026-27 school year?
Jackson: Despite the impact of federal job cuts on our local economy, Mayor Bowser has increased spending on public education. DCPS is committed to ensuring school budgets prioritize classroom teachers, and we believe all schools have the resources they need to support their scholars.
What role will technology, including AI, play in learning for your teachers and students during the 2026-27 school year?
Jackson: At D.C. Public Schools (DCPS), we are committed to providing our scholars with rigorous educational experiences that prepare them to be competitive in the college or career landscape. This preparation is not complete without responsible access to and instruction for digital tools and technology, including artificial intelligence.
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