A forum on Long Island to discuss the Common Core program and its effect on local education will take place on Thursday, Oct. 24, at SUNY Old Westbury.
Assemblyman Ed Ra (R-Franklin Square) and several of his Long Island Assembly minority colleagues have invited educators, parents and other stakeholders to share their experiences with the federally-mandated curriculum. As Ranking Minority Member on the Education Committee, Ra feels these hearing will be crucial in addressing what is really important, namely whether or not these standards are causing our children to become discouraged and disinterested in their education. The forum is part of a statewide series to hear feedback on Common Core and the effects high-stake testing is having on children and educators alike.
“No matter how well-intentioned the new standardized testing scheme was, it failed to take into consideration the human side of education,” Ra said. “Rather than start the school year renewed and recharged, ready for the challenges of a new year, our children and teachers are beginning discouraged and anxious about tests and standards. These forums will allow us to take an in-depth look at the new Common Core curriculum and ask if these new standards are being implemented properly and effectively.”
The program will be from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Duane L. Jones Recital Hall at SUNY Old Westbury.
Due to time constraints, it is strongly recommended that those wishing to present oral testimony at this forum pre-register by contacting the Assembly minority Office of Public Affairs at (518) 455-5073 or minpaff@assembly.state.ny.us. Written testimony is also being accepted, as well as letters expressing the impact Common Core has had on your children and/or students.
For more information, contact Assemblyman Ra’s office at (516) 535-4095.
