| June 27, 2024 |
| Dear Parents and Families, |
 As we conclude another successful academic year, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations and sincere thanks to each of you for your invaluable support and partnership in making this year a success. At the June Board of Regents meeting, the New York State Education Department (NYSED) presented its vision to implement the recommendations of the NYS Blue Ribbon Commission on Graduation Measures that are designed to bring greater equity to the State’s education system. The Department is committed to transforming education to meet the expectations voiced by stakeholders and the challenges of the 21st century. NYSED’s vision calls for transformative actions in four areas: 1. Adopting the New York State Portrait of a Graduate, 2. Redefining credits, 3. Sunsetting diploma assessment requirements, and 4. Moving to one diploma. In an effort to continue to gather stakeholder feedback, NYSED encourages you to share your thoughts related to these four proposed transformations by participating in the current ThoughtExchange. Additional information, including a list of frequently asked questions related to the New York State Graduation Measures Initiative, may be referenced on the Graduation Measures webpage. At this time, no changes to the current diploma requirements have been approved by the Board of Regents. The current credit and assessment requirements remain in effect for all high school students. Guidance related to the current diploma requirements can be found on NYSED’s Graduation Requirements webpage. NYSED hosted several notable events to celebrate students’ efforts and achievements to close out the school year. On May 30, NYSED convened the 2024 New York State My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) Symposium in Albany. More than 1,000 students, parents, and educational leaders from across New York State gathered to share the impact of MBK, gain valuable knowledge, and get motivated to implement new strategies in their communities to help boys and young men of color—and all students—realize their full potential. The event included nationally renowned speakers, workshops, student-led panels, and a college and career resource fair. During the event, NYSED also named the seventh class of the MBK Fellows. Each Fellow will be matched with a mentor from a New York State MBK Community Network partner and given a fellowship opportunity. NYSED also recently hosted the Statewide Elementary Mathematics Tournament in Albany. Congratulations to the winners and all of the talented students who participated! As summer begins, NYSED and the New York State Library are once again partnering with 1,100 public libraries and neighborhood branches across the state to launch the Summer Reading at New York Libraries program. Throughout the summer, local libraries will host various activities and events to bring children, families, and communities together for reading and enrichment programs. This year’s theme, “Adventure Begins at Your Library,” promotes exploration, outdoor activities, and reading adventures for students and their families. Commissioner Rosa kicked off the 2024 Summer Reading Program at a special Juneteenth Storytime event at Albany Public Library’s Howe Branch. Pre-kindergarten students from Albany’s Giffen Memorial Elementary School were in attendance to enjoy Juneteenth-themed stories, songs, and dancing with their caregivers and other library patrons. If you are looking for additional educational activities, the New York State Library and the New York State Museum are offering educational opportunities for New Yorkers of all ages throughout the summer. Public programming at the New York State Library includes webinars and events related to history, genealogical services, and other interesting topics. Visit the State Library’s website for a complete list of upcoming programs. The New York State Museum’s programs—including events, lectures, exhibits, and a host of online resources—allow children, families, educators, and students to experience art, science, and history in a fun and engaging way. Visit the State Museum’s website for additional information on these exciting programs. Finally, congratulations to all of this year’s graduates – including those who finished preschool, kindergarten, elementary school, middle school, high school, college, and beyond. Our students work hard to achieve their goals, and their commitment to education has paid off! Best wishes to the members of the Class of 2024 as they embark upon their next adventures. Sincerely, Betty A. Rosa Commissioner |