Well, not really a secret–but it feels like that, as I just learned about the implementation of the revised free ride program for DC’s students not through my kids’ schools, but through an email from a parent who had heard word of mouth.

So, shout this information from the DC Department of Transportation from the rooftops (boldface below is mine):

“Students who use Metrorail, Metrobus, and DC Circulator to get to school and school-related activities need to obtain a new KRF SmarTrip card at a summer distribution event or when the next school year starts. Beginning October 1, 2018, students will no longer be able to use their DC One Cards to access public transportation. The new card will be separate from students’ DC One Card and will provide students with free transportation to school and school-related activities. The new SmarTrip card will provide students with free and immediate access to travel on Metrobus, Metrorail, and DC Circulator. Students will simply be required to tap their new KRF SmarTrip cards on all bus and rail trips.”

Below is the list of summer card events to which you can bring your child and his or her ID and get the ride free card (with the added caution of being told to check back at the website often, because these dates/locations/times are subject to change):

July 21, 9 am – 2 pm: Wilson High School, 3950 Chesapeake St NW

July 22, 2 pm – 7 pm: Capitol Hill Montessori @ Logan, 215 G St NE

August 4, 9 am – 2 pm: Brightwood Education Campus, 1300 Nicholson Street NW

August 5, 1 pm – 6 pm: Dunbar High School, 101 N St NW

August 11, 9 am – 2 pm: Columbia Heights Ed. Campus, 3101 16th St NW

August 12, 1 pm – 6 pm: Ballou High School, 3401 4th St SE

August 18, 9 am – 4 pm: Walter E. Washington Convention Center, 801 Mt Vernon Place NW

August 19, 1 pm – 6 pm, District Department of Employment Services, 4058 Minnesota Ave NE

Registration for these summer events is on this website–note that students will also be able to get their new cards at their schools after the start of school as well, so if you and your child cannot make one of these summer events, you can obtain a new kids ride free pass at your child’s school during the new school year.

Questions? Call (202) 673-1740.