FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 16, 2026
Washington Teachers’ Union Ranks Oye Owolewa #1 for DC Council At‑Large
Washington, D.C. — The Washington Teachers’ Union (WTU) proudly announces that it is ranking Oye Owolewa as its #1 choice for DC Council At‑Large in the upcoming Democratic Primary. This decision reflects WTU’s commitment to supporting leaders who prioritize public education, equity, educator voice, and democratic governance across the District.
Owolewa is a long‑time advocate for public schools and a familiar presence in DC classrooms. He has volunteered regularly at Turner and Malcolm X Elementary Schools, where he “run[s] science experiments and encourag[es] students to call each other ‘doctor’ so they can see themselves in STEM.” His work pairs hands‑on learning with “social and emotional lessons about purpose, respect, and belonging.”
A champion for educator voice, Owolewa has been outspoken about the need to rebalance power in DC’s education system. “We need to rebalance power so teachers, principals, parents, students, and LSATs have real voice in budget and policy decisions,” he wrote. He has also committed to restoring collective bargaining rights: “I support repealing DC Code § 1‑617.18 and restoring collective bargaining over teacher evaluation. Evaluation is a fundamental working condition and should be negotiated, not imposed.”
Owolewa’s priorities for the At‑Large seat align strongly with WTU’s vision for a stable, equitable, and community‑rooted public school system. He believes “a strong school is a stable, walkable neighborhood school where teachers stay, class sizes are manageable, and resources match student need.” His platform emphasizes stabilizing school budgets, strengthening LSAT authority, expanding educator pipelines, and ensuring equitable access to services for English Language Learners and students with disabilities.
WTU President Laura Fuchs stated:
“Oye Owolewa has demonstrated his consistency and determination to serve the residents of DC. He shows up and has proven results. His genuine connections with educators and interest in what is going on in the community will be a valuable asset on the DC Council as we fight for more democracy and accountability in our public education system.”
The WTU urges all members and community stakeholders to participate in the DC Democratic Primary and rank Oye Owolewa #1 for DC Council At‑Large.
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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
Bob Schlehube
Email: bob@vote4oye.com