Getting To and From School and School Activities
A successful year starts with having a plan for getting to and from school each and every day.
Kids Ride Free
Through the Kids Ride Free Program , DC students attending public, public charter, and DC private schools can get to and from school and school-related activities for free on Metrobus and Metrorail. Students must tap their Kids Ride Free SmartTrip Cards when getting on the bus and when entering and exiting Metro stations.
Students will be able to use the 2025-2026 Kids Ride Free Card through September 30, 2026. Schools will share details on how to request a new 2026-2027 card at the beginning of the school year. Families can also contact their School ID Administrator or DDOT's School Transit Subsidy Program Office at [email protected].
OSSE Parent Portal for Student Transportation
The OSSE Parent Portal allows parents to choose the best options for children with disabilities who are eligible for transportation services. Families an enter, verify, and change pickup and drop-off addresses. Parents of students with transportation-eligible Individual Educdation Programs (IEPs) must log into the portal at parent.osse.dc.gov to make their selection and ensure transportation is set up for the school year.
For questions or assistance, contact the OSSE Parent Resource Center at 202-576-5000.
Safe Passage
The Safe Passage Program helps thousands of students arrive and depart school safely each day. Safe Passage Ambassadors are trained to focus on conflict resolution, youth engagement, and emergency response. Learn more at safepassage.dc.gov or contact [email protected].
DC School Connect
DC School Connect provides transportation to a select number of District public and public charter schools in Safe Passage Zones in Ward 7 and 8. To learn about the registration process and participating schools, visit dfhv.dc.gov/dcsc or email [email protected].
