From Yonkers Parents Seeking Solutions
Many of you may remember this group from the pandemic when parents came together to support one another, share information, and help ensure our children had access to education, technology, and resources during a difficult time. While this page has not been active for some time, I believe the current situation facing Yonkers Public Schools requires our attention once again.
The closure of School 25 along with the proposed closure of School 21, consolidation of middle school programs, cuts to Pre-K services, and elimination of approximately 140 positions should concern every family in our city.
We are being told these changes are necessary because of declining enrollment, rising special education costs, and funding issues. As parents and taxpayers, we deserve transparency. We deserve to see the numbers.
* How many students are currently enrolled in Yonkers Public Schools?
* What were the enrollment numbers five years ago?
* What has enrollment looked like year by year?
* How does the district’s school placement and lottery system impact enrollment at individual schools?
In 2014, Mayor Mike Spano championed the Intermunicipal Agreement (IMA), which increased City Hall’s role in overseeing Yonkers Public Schools. The promise was greater financial stability and improved management of our school system. More than a decade later, we are now discussing school closures, staff reductions, program cuts, and fewer resources for our children.
Whether you support or oppose these proposals, one thing should unite us: our children deserve better.
Complaining on social media will not create change. Parents, teachers, staff, and community members must become informed, ask questions, attend meetings, and demand accountability.
The real question is:
Are we willing to stand up for our children’s education, or will we remain silent while decisions are made for us?
Our children should never be the last priority.