Demands for meritocracy over mediocrity in the city’s top schools continue as parents beg for more screened programs over pandemic-era lotteries.
Brooklyn public school parents pushed for merit over mediocrity this week, calling for grades and test scores to matter again on middle school applications in one of the city’s highest performing districts.
“Three recent key decisions and the manner in which they were made reflect the anti-democratic leadership style and violate the collaborative and democratic spirit of public education,” said parent Alina Lewis. “We need more action, less talk,” said Steve Stowe, a parent of an eighth grader at JHS 259 in Dyker Heights.
Critics of the screened admissions say it hinders diversity and integration. Backers argue screening maintains academic standards and rigor. Before the pandemic, the district of more than 50,000 students had eight of the programs but is now down to three. Sixth grade seats were cut from 800 to 600. Advocates estimate the need to be nearly 2,000 based on student test scores.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Here are 5 key trends shaping the liquor industry as spirits overtake beer for the first timeThe spirits industry is overcoming economic headwinds to keep up with changing consumer preferences and demands.
Read more »
Like smoking 30 cigarettes in 8 hours: NYC’s air quality crisis, talliedIf an average adult spent an 8-hour work shift outdoors in Bushwick, Brooklyn on June 7, the peak period when the skies turned orange, then they were exposed to the equivalent of smoking 30 cigarettes.
Read more »
Where to celebrate Pride Month in NJ and NYCHere is how you can celebrate Pride Month in 2023 in New Jersey and New York City
Read more »
NYC lifeguard training exceeds state standards despite staffing shortage at beaches, poolsMany municipalities in the state choose to use the widespread Red Cross or YMCA certifications instead of custom programs like the one used in New York City, offering trainees more flexibility as to when they can take safety courses.
Read more »
Rivian plans more retail locations across US, opens first tomorrow in NYCElectric car manufacturer Rivian is expanding its retail footprint with a plan to open boutiques across North America.
Read more »
NYC Mom Stabbed While Defending Child: 'She Had a Knife to Her Head'A woman carrying a knife is accused of targeting a mother who was with her child on Monday afternoon in Brooklyn, the incident happening as New Yorkers suffer under rampant crime.
Read more »