‘We will not play with you and your education’: DC parks and rec announces ‘Play it Forward’ scholarships

D.C.’s Department of Parks and Recreation is offering more than just fun and games to participants in its programs.

DPR Director Thennie Freeman announced a new “Play it Forward Scholarship” available to D.C. residents heading to college who’ve taken part in recreation department programming in the past.

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s administration committed $200,000 for the program.

“Up to 40 students can receive a scholarship of $5,000,” each, Freeman said.

Freeman told WTOP the message to eligible participants is that they are deserving of investment.

“You played with us, but we will not play with you and your education,” Freeman said.

Freeman said the scholarships are an investment in young people.

“There’s a nickname for children who hang out at the recs, they’re called ‘rec babie