As a concerned parent of a Duke Ellington School of the Arts student, I am deeply troubled by the recent incidents affecting our children. Reports of assault, robbery, harassment, and targeting of LGBTQ students have shaken our community to its core, compromising the safety and well-being of our children. It is heartbreaking to see our students vulnerable as they travel to and from school, and we must take immediate action to ensure their safety.

One of the primary issues facing our students is the lack of reliable transportation. The D2 shuttle, which previously served as a critical link for many of our students, has been discontinued. The absence of this shuttle has left students with limited and sometimes unsafe transportation options. We advocate for the immediate return of the D2 shuttle service to provide a safe and reliable means for our students to commute.

Moreover, the existing public transportation options are inadequate, especially during peak school times. We are calling for additional buses per hour during school arrival and departure times. This will help alleviate overcrowding and reduce wait times, ensuring that students are not left stranded or forced to walk long distances in potentially dangerous situations.

Lastly, we seek funding for a dedicated shuttle service between Dupont Circle and Duke Ellington School. This service would cater specifically to our student population, offering a direct, efficient, and safe route to and from school. Such a service is essential to protecting our students and providing peace of mind to parents and guardians.

Together, we can make a difference by ensuring that our children have the safe transportation they deserve. Let's take this crucial step towards prioritizing student safety and well-being. Please join me in this effort by signing this petition to reinstate the D2 shuttle, increase the number of buses, and secure funding for a dedicated shuttle service. Sign today to show your support for our children's safe future.