Lottery Preference for Families Impacted by School Closures Amendment Act of 2026

This bill requires District of Columbia public charter schools and public schools to give admission preference in the annual school lottery to students who attended a school that closed during the current or immediately preceding school year. It directly affects families displaced by sudden school closures - such as those from charter schools with revoked or relinquished charters, or DCPS schools determined to close - by ensuring these students receive priority access to available seats during the lottery process. The preference applies whether the closure announcement occurs during the active lottery period or before it begins, allowing displaced students to compete for spots alongside those who participated in the full lottery cycle. This policy change aims to mitigate disruptions caused by school closures, which research links to long-term negative impacts on students' education and future opportunities.