Because it’s generally frowned upon to force children into dark, non-air-conditioned buildings when it’s 93 degrees outside, classes at J.O. Wilson Elementary and the Community College of D.C. were canceled Wednesday due to power outages.
D.C. Public Schools’ headquarters in Northeast also lost power Tuesday, and a call to staff Wednesday morning was met with “I’m dealing with a power outage right now.” A release from Mayor Vincent Gray said central-office functions have been moved to “remote locations” — Eastern High School and employees’ homes.
Alan Etter, a spokesman for the University of the District of Columbia, said all locations other than 801 N. Capitol St. remain open, and urged students to check Facebook, email, and the UDC website for updates.
As for Northeast’s J.O. Wilson, a DCPS spokeswoman said that Pepco is working on the school, “but it will not be restored in time to ensure the building is properly cooled for students and staff.”
She also suggested that students follow local news media and the DCPS website for updates.
