The phrase "Race to the Top" is often used in reference to funding for public education. I can't help but wonder as to what "top" it is that we are racing. School districts throughout the state are facing insufficient state aid for education, and mandate relief has not been delivered.
As a mother and an educator, I am angry. The deadline for passing the state budget is rapidly approaching, and I believe that it's time to tell our governor that we have had enough.
Virtually every school district in the state has reduced its costs and depleted fund balances. Most districts throughout the state have cut teachers, staff and programs. The number of Advanced Placement and honors classes and electives are shrinking. Art and music classes have been reduced as have summer school and remedial programs.
It seems to me that we are not actually "racing to the top," rather we are merely lowering the standards.
We moved to New York believing the state standards for education were among the best in the country. What we have experienced is shrinking educational opportunities for our children and a governor who seems to care little for the future of the students of our state.
Jennifer Bailey
Delmar