Since our inception in 2015, ERN DC has become an influential stakeholder and education reform champion in Washington DC. ERN DC has a proven record of successfully advocating for key policies to advance student achievement and well-being, providing expert policy guidance to policymakers, and building coalitions and civic leader groups to increase community-centered engagement and advocacy. 

ERN DC has successfully advocated for the support of student well-being and accelerated learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Key policies include a $41 million investment in high-impact tutoring, expansion of the school-based behavioral health program to all schools, additional funding for students designated as “at-risk” totaling $10.4 million in recurring funding, and increased funding for all schools. 

We have also helped advocate for policies that will correct longstanding inequities: increased charter facilities funding; innovative co-location policies; structured literacy training for D.C. Public School teachers; an updated education funding adequacy study; support for DCPS and charter educators to own their own house in the District; and a more equitable My School DC lottery. Our work for students is only possible through strong relationships with D.C. elected and appointed officials and key policymakers. 

Additionally, ERN DC is a strong education community partner. Our coalition work includes partnerships with other education advocates, schools, and groups working directly with parents, students, and families. We are members of the DC Students Succeed Coalition, Strongest Year Yet Coalition, College In High School Alliance, and Strengthening Families Through Behavioral Health Coalition. 

If you would like to join the fight for a just and equitable public education system for all our students in DC, watch this video and click here to sign up!

By the Numbers

5.9%

Increase to the Base Foundation Level of the Per Pupil Funding Formula in FY 2023

3.1%

Increase to the Public Charter Facilities Allotment for FY 2023 and Beyond

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Education Reform Champions Network

The Education Reform Champions (ERCs) Network is a community of people who leverage their lived-experiences, expertise, and connections to advance education policy in DC. This diverse network brings together passionate advocates from all eight wards—students, parents, educators, community leaders, policy professionals, and business innovators—united by their commitment to transforming our education system through innovation, accountability, and high-quality public school choice.

Network Benefits: What distinguishes the ERCs Network is its focus on both individual growth and collective impact. 

  • Professional Development in civic engagement, strategic communication, policy research, personal branding, and network building
  • Candidate Training for anyone interested in running for office or accepting appointments to education boards, commissions, and leadership positions in education
  • Visibility as an education thought leader across digital platforms,press, and on panels
  • Career Advancement Support for individuals seeking education-related jobs, appointments, and leadership positions 

Strategic Impact Across DC

Our network helps to prepare members to hold positions throughout the District, creating a strong coalition that spans all eight wards. This strategic positioning allows members to create change from multiple angles while building valuable cross-sector relationships.