Councilmember Charles Allen (Ward 6) made the following statement calling for DCPS Chancellor Antwan Wilson to step aside:

On Friday evening, I issued a statement outlining my profound disappointment in learning of Chancellor Wilson’s actions, including how they broke my trust as a DCPS parent. While every parent wants what is best for his or her child, not every parent is also trusted to run our public school system.

Over the weekend, I have talked with and heard from Ward 6 parents and neighbors who are frustrated, angry, and have lost confidence in the Chancellor. However, before making any public decision regarding my thoughts for his future, I wanted to have the opportunity to speak with Chancellor Wilson directly. We spoke for nearly an hour early Sunday evening, and while I appreciate his candor, I have come to an opinion that I don’t take lightly.

To be highly effective as Chancellor, I believe that an individual needs both the vision and skills to lead the school system, and the trust and faith of the parents and families of the students enrolled. While I believe that Chancellor Wilson had demonstrated skill in leading the system, I also believe that he has lost -- and will be unable to regain -- the trust of so many parents that is vital to the success of DC Public Schools. Without that public trust, any Chancellor will be unable to advance a vision.

Therefore, I believe it is in the best interest of the District and DC Public Schools that Chancellor Wilson step aside and that Mayor Bowser outline a transition plan and strategy to rebuild parent and community trust as we continue to work together to improve our public schools.

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