D.C. Education Advocate Mary Levy Dies at 82, Leaving Legacy of Budget Transparency

Mary Levy, a prominent figure in D.C. education circles, passed away on July 31, 2024, at the age of 82. Known for her expertise in unraveling complex school budgets, Levy's work spanned nearly five decades and significantly impacted the District's education landscape.

Levy's journey in education advocacy began after moving to D.C. in 1967. With a PhD in linguistics from the University of Michigan and a law degree from George Washington University, she brought a unique perspective to her work. Her involvement in education reform intensified in 1980 when her daughters attended Hyde Elementary School.

During this time, D.C. Public Schools (DCPS), established in 1805 as one of the oldest public school systems in the United States, faced numerous challenges. Levy's expertise became crucial as the district grappled with funding issues, staff quality concerns, and poor performance.

Levy's work with Parents United, an advocacy group formed in response to proposed budget cuts, led to significant improvements in the school system. Her reports exposed underpayment of teachers and principals, inadequate school funding, and fire code violations, resulting in necessary repairs and increased accountability.

"In many ways, Mary was an unsung hero in the education reform movement."

Levy's dedication to education reform aligned with several significant changes in DCPS. In 2007, the D.C. Council passed legislation giving the mayor direct control over DCPS, and the D.C. State Board of Education was established to advise on education policy. These changes, along with various reform initiatives implemented since the early 2000s, have shaped the current landscape of education in the District.

Despite being diagnosed with uterine cancer in 2020 and undergoing treatment in 2023, Levy remained committed to her work. Her last public appearance was at a council hearing in April 2024, where she presented findings on teacher cuts and the size of the district's central office.

Levy's legacy extends beyond her analytical skills. She taught her daughters the importance of systemic advocacy, emphasizing the need to look at structures rather than just individual cases. Her work has been instrumental in making the budget process more transparent and understandable for families, a crucial aspect in a district known for its high per-pupil spending rates and complex school choice system.

As DCPS continues to address challenges such as achievement gaps, graduation rates, and facilities issues, the impact of Levy's work in promoting transparency and accountability will undoubtedly be felt for years to come.