| December 20, 2023 |
| Dear Parents and Families, |
| Happy Holidays to you and your families! As we celebrate this season, I wish you and your loved ones a joyous and peaceful time filled with warmth, laughter, and love. I look forward to continuing our important work in the new year. Together, we will continue to create a safe and nurturing learning environment that empowers every student to thrive. I also wanted to take a moment to express my deep gratitude to the parent-teacher associations and organizations across the state, with special recognition to Kyle Belokopitsky and her team at the New York State PTA, for their unwavering support and commitment to our students. As we near the end of the year, I have updates to share on the following topics: * Board of Regents Budget and Legislative Priorities for the 2024-25 School Year * Public Hearings on Mayoral Control of New York City Schools * New York State’s Nominees for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program * Educational Resources for the Holiday Break Board of Regents Budget and Legislative Priorities for the 2024-25 School Year At this month’s Board of Regents meeting, the Board outlined its budget and legislative priorities for the 2024-25 school year. These priorities focus on supporting lifelong learning opportunities, providing a P-20 continuum in education, and advancing equity in education for all students. The Board of Regents’ comprehensive legislative and budget proposals include: * Supporting districts with rapid enrollment growth, * Providing resources to meet the increasing demand for career and technical education and early college programs, * Bolstering supports and services for students with disabilities, * Funding to support English Language Learners, * Stabilizing revenue for cultural education, and * Additional funding for higher education opportunity programs to reach and support more students. To carry out these priorities, the Board of Regents’ proposal includes an investment in agency-wide infrastructure to allow continued progress toward the Department’s goal of providing world-class customer service and improved supports for districts, teachers, students, parents, professionals, and the public. Public Hearings on Mayoral Control of New York City Schools The New York State Education Department (NYSED) is conducting a series of public hearings as part of the State’s comprehensive review of the overall effectiveness of mayoral control of New York City schools. In accordance with Chapter 364 of the Laws of 2022, members of the public—including students, parents, teachers, school administrators and staff, and individuals with experience and expertise in education policy and school governance—are welcome to provide feedback on their experiences, assessments, and/or review of the mayoral control system of New York City schools to help inform the State’s review. Members of the public may participate by providing oral testimony at a public hearing, and/or by submitting written electronic testimony. Visit NYSED’s Mayoral Control website for a full list of hearings, locations, and times. New York State’s Nominees for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program NYSED recently nominated 25 New York State high school seniors for the 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. Presidential Scholar recognition is one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students who represent excellence in education and the promise of greatness in young people. The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars selects scholars annually based on their academic success, artistic excellence, essays, school evaluations, and transcripts, as well as evidence of community service, leadership, and demonstrated commitment to high ideals. Congratulations to the nominees! Educational Resources for the Holiday Break Learning doesn’t have to stop when schools are closed. Check out these resources to keep your children engaged during the holiday break! New York State Museum website Find online educational resources and programs or plan a visit. DayByDayNY website This resource from the New York State Library features winter-themed children’s songs, e-books, and activities. PBS KIDS website Get book recommendations and educational activities that the whole family can enjoy. Best wishes to you, your families, and your school communities for a safe, healthy, happy, and restful holiday season. Sincerely, Betty A. Rosa Commissioner |