About OSSE

The Office of  the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE), formerly known as the State Education Office (SEO), is a high-performing, transparent agency that sets proactive policies, exercises vigilant oversight, and directs resources that guarantee residents educated in the District of Columbia are among the highest performers in the nation; fully prepared for successful postsecondary learning and employment in the creative economy. The OSSE launched its official name change on June 12, 2007, and was created by the District of Columbia Public Education Reform Act of 2007 (DC Act 17-38). 

As the State Education Agency for DC, the OSSE sets statewide policies, provides resources and support, and exercises accountability for ALL public education in DC. 

• The OSSE is responsible for determining what students should know and be able to do in math upon completing the third grade. (policy)
• The OSSE distributes federal grant funds relating to closing the achievement gap under No Child Left Behind, including supporting the teaching of third grade math. (resources/support) 
• The OSSE develops and administers the DC CAS assessment to monitor the achievement of thirdgraders in math. (accountability) 

Vision

All District residents receive an excellent education

Mission

The Office of the State Superintendent of Education sets high expectations, provides resources and support, and exercises accountability to ensure that all residents receive an excellent education.