The SEO is very concerned about the welfare of all of our students, and, in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, we are thinking of you at this sad and tragic time. The SEO is working with various institutions to assist you in making your educational transition as smooth as possible, for those that are transferring to other universities or colleges, please contact our offices as soon as possible. If you have not enrolled in another institution, we encourage you to visit our website, and contact the SEO, in order to assist in your decision process.

The SEO website will provide you and your families with a variety of information, including area universities, which are accepting students from the Gulf region. Please contact Kadidia Thiero at the SEO if you have not informed us of your transfer. Ms. Thiero can be contacted at (202) 360-0591 or by email.

The DC State Education Office would like to inform you of following organizations which are offering additional assistance during this difficult period:

• "The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has hotline telephone number: (800) 621-FEMA (3362), where you can access information about assistance; you are also able to apply online.
• Call the American Red Cross toll-free at (800) 975-7585, or in the District (202) 728-6400.

Again, please contact the SEO: (202) 727-6436 should you have any further questions or concerns. Best wishes for a successful semester.