Mayor-elect Bowser assumed control at a delicate juncture in the turbulent history of DC schools. In the 2008-09 school year, public school enrollment--in both traditional and charter schools--increased for the first time since the 1960s. In 2013-14, the District had the largest student body in over 25 years, and over the past 15 years, public schools in DC have gained ground on national tests. Contrary to the widespread belief that these gains are the result of a greater number of students from more affluent, higher-educated families, a recent analysis of DC's own achievement tests suggests that only 10 percent of the test score increase can be attributed to changing demographics. In fact, all subgroups, including Hispanic and black students and students from lower-income families (identified by their eligibility for subsidized meals) have experienced some incremental improvements, although their gains are not commensurate with those of students from higher-income families. This brief describes the following: reforms that possibly contributed to the gains on national tests; recommendations for how the mayor can promote meaningful choice for every student, a quality school in every neighborhood, and a long-term leadership structure that is both stable and responsive; goals for the first year; and goals for the first term. By emphasizing stability and equity, the new administration can ensure that more DC youth have access to the high-quality education they deserve and need to be successful.