Coronavirus in DC

D.C. Public Schools released more information Thursday on how some elementary students will return to schools soon, as data indicates students began the school year less prepared than usual.  DCPS saw a 22 percentage point reduction in kindergarteners meeting or exceeding benchmarks at the start of this school year, in comparison to previous years. There also was a 9 percentage…

The Washington teachers union and DC public schools are back at the negotiating table…hammering out an agreement that could get kids in the classroom next month. News4’s Cory Smith reports.

D.C. Public Schools’ plan to return elementary school students to classrooms starting Nov. 9 is set to prioritize already-identified students who are experiencing homelessness, have special education needs, are at risk or are learning the English language. The school district plans to notify families who will be offered a spot in an in-person learning classroom by the end of this week...

D.C.’s schools chancellor answered questions from parents as the school system prepares to bring elementary school students back to classrooms. News4’s Jackie Bensen reports.

A D.C. court has issued a temporary injunction Friday that will allow a church to hold outdoor services with more congregants than are allowed under the District’s phase two reopening rules. The 850-member Capitol Hill Baptist Church praised the decision as restoring equity. “We trust that this will be a blessing not only to our congregation but to the...

D.C.’s alcohol regulation authority is investigating after a video showed patrons cheering for police officers inside a crowded downtown bar and restaurant.

Brick-and-mortar businesses in Washington, D.C, can start applying Tuesday to get $10,000 from a resiliency fund. News4’s Justin Finch reports that the businesses can use the money to adapt as the pandemic squeezes the economy.

A limited number of D.C. Public Schools students can return to in-person learning starting in November, the chancellor announced Monday. Twice as many students will do virtual learning inside schools as will be in typical classrooms. Starting on Nov. 9, some families will have the option to return to schools in person, Chancellor Lewis Ferebee said at a news conference....

For the first time in six months, visitors to the Washington Monument can take the elevator 500 feet up to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the National Mall. News4’s Juliana Valencia reports on what you need to know before visiting.

Some D.C. schools are back open for specialized programs. In-person learning is still slated to begin in November. Mark Segraves reports.

A new “streatery” outdoor dining space is opening and restaurants hope it will be a lifeline during the pandemic. “Downtown D.C. really needs the support,” President and CEO of the Downtown D.C. Business Improvement District Neil Albert said.

D.C. Public Schools buildings are being assessed to determine if they can be ready for some in-person learning to begin Nov. 9, sources tell News4.

The Kennedy Center has reinvented its opera house to accommodate the very first performances since the pandemic struck. News4’s Jummy Olabanji reports on how they plan to keep patrons, staff and performers safe.

Even as temperatures cool down, D.C.’s government is trying to keep people eating outdoors. Restaurants are getting some financial help to prepare for whatever weather fall brings. But some of the necessary equipment is becoming tough to find. News4’s Jackie Bensen reports.

Even as temperatures are cooling down, D.C.’s government is trying to keep people eating outdoors. A $6,000 grant from the District government could give restaurants additional weeks, or even months, to provide service in outdoor patios. Restaurant owner Constantine Stavropoulos says the coronavirus pandemic has made people more inclined to eat outside, where public health experts say you’re less...

Mayor Muriel Bowser is also considering waivers for some live indoor music venues as restaurants are being offered grants for outdoor dining needs. News 4’s Mark Segraves reports.

D.C. is planning to begin a hybrid schooling model in November and has staff planning how the first rounds of a coronavirus vaccine would be distributed once one is available.

Mayor Muriel Bowser laid out the progress of the fight against the coronavirus and her plans for the future. The mayor said that she wants at least some D.C . Public School students back in the classroom, by November 9th. News4’s Mark Segraves reports.

Seven popular nightlife spots near D.C.’s U Street Corridor will be shuttered next month as the pandemic and prevention measures collapse their ability to stay profitable, the owners say. American Ice Company, Brixton, Echo Park, El Rey, Gibson, Marvin and Players Club will close after service on Halloween, Ian and Eric Hilton said in a statement. It’s unsustainable to...

The DC Convention Center holds its first large event since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic. News4’s Mark Segraves reports.