FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 21, 2026
Washington Teachers’ Union Endorses Zachary Parker for Ward 5 DC Councilmember
Washington, D.C. — The Washington Teachers’ Union (WTU) proudly announces its endorsement of Councilmember Zachary Parker for Ward 5 in the 2026 Democratic Primary. This endorsement reflects WTU’s commitment to supporting leaders who center equity, strengthen neighborhood public schools, and champion the needs of educators, students, and families across the District.
Councilmember Parker has been a steadfast advocate for public education throughout his service on the DC State Board of Education and the DC Council. As a former SBOE President during the height of the pandemic, he led efforts to revamp the state education plan, strengthen attendance policies, and ensure equity remained at the forefront of decision‑making. On the Council, he has continued this hands‑on approach, from conducting school site visits to pressing agencies to address building conditions and standing with educators and the WTU in the fight for a fair contract.
“My focus has been consistent: listen to school communities, advocate for the resources they need, and ensure our education system is equitable, responsive, and accountable to students and families,” Parker said.
Councilmember Parker’s priorities for Ward 5 and the District include:
- Addressing chronic truancy by reforming the referral system, expanding early interventions, and investing in school‑based supports like attendance counselors, mental health services, and family engagement.
- Strengthening educator retention by improving working conditions, reducing administrative burdens, expanding career pathways, and ensuring timely, fair contract negotiations.
- Expanding teacher pipelines through stronger paraprofessional‑to‑teacher pathways, better mentorship for new educators, and restoring stability for international educators, including H‑1B visa holders.
- Improving school funding transparency and equity by empowering LSATs, strengthening reporting requirements, and ensuring at‑risk dollars reach the students they are intended to support.
WTU President Laura Fuchs stated:
“Zachary Parker has demonstrated a high level of responsiveness and care when interacting with our members, especially in Ward 5. He has especially been strong with his approach to Special Education and oversight. He has demonstrated that education is one of his top priorities and has been unafraid to advocate for the kinds of changes we need. We look forward to our continued partnership.”
The WTU urges all members and community stakeholders to vote in the DC Democratic Primary on June 16, 2026, and support Zachary Parker for Ward 5 Councilmember.
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About the Washington Teachers’ Union
The WTU represents more than 6,000 active and retired teachers. It is dedicated to social and educational justice for the students of the District of Columbia and to improving the quality of support, resources, compensation and working conditions for the public servants and proud teachers who educate our students in D.C. Public Schools. Learn more at www.WTULocal6.net.
For media inquiries, contact:
Akua Tay
Communications Specialist
Washington Teachers’ Union
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (202) 412-8008
Shewana Skinner
Campaign Manager
Committee to Re-Elect Zachary Parker 2026
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 240-354-0257
Website to Donate: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/zacharyparker2026