On Wednesday, dedicated parents, teachers, and scholars from SA Far Rockaway, SA Flatbush, and SA Bushwick joined more than 1,000 other NYC charter advocates in Albany to urge state legislators to stand with charter families and ensure our scholars get equal funding and access to facilities.
Parent Voices Have Power
“I’m here today because I want more families to have access to the Path to Possible,” said Rosemary Valdez, whose children attend KIPP NYC College Prep High School and KIPP Infinity Middle School. “By sharing my children’s story with state legislators, I hope to help them understand why it’s so important that public charter schools get the funding and space they need to reach twice as many kids across New York City.”
We Are Not Alone
"I believe in public education. I believe in charter schools. Last time I checked, charter schools are public schools,” said New York State Senate Majority Leader John Flanagan. “That’s why I’m proud to stand with New York City families and call for 200,000 students in public charters by 2020."
Being a Voice for the Voiceless
“So many of my colleagues say they want to be a voice for the voiceless. In my opinion, the voiceless are the over 44,000 families on charter waitlists, desperate for something better for their children. As a parent, we know what’s best for our children. We can’t afford to let them stay in a school that’s not leading them to a successful career and education,” said New York State Assemblyman Marcos Crespos.
Why We Advocate
At the heart of it, we fight for opportunity. We fight for children. Students reminded parents and educators why advocacy to expand charter school access is worth the effort. “Science is the best!” wrote one student. “I can get a scholarship one day,” said another.
Keep the Momentum Going
Even without going to Albany, you can make sure your voice is heard. Tell our state leaders that public charter schools are key to ensuring all NYC kids have access to high-quality education.
