Hi John,

Governor Hochul is preparing a deal that would weaken learning standards for thousands of New York students. Once again, she is playing politics with their education. She’s proposing changes that would allow religious schools to continue operating without teaching core subjects like English and math to the “sound basic education” standards, and would roll back recent efforts to hold noncompliant schools accountable. She is unnecessarily delaying the budget to strike deals that serve her political interests, risking more attacks on students’ right to a fair education. At a time when the federal government is making cuts to our nation’s public schools, if New York caves now, we risk setting a dangerous precedent for future generations.

For over a century, New York’s substantial equivalency law has ensured that private schools provide a quality education. This law was put in place to prevent students from being unprepared for life beyond their school communities. Today, it must be upheld to protect students' futures.

We can stop this, but we need to act now.

Call Governor Hochul (518.474.8390), Senate Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins (518.455.2585), and Speaker Heastie (518.455.3791).

Tell them: "Hello, my name is [your name], and I’m a New Yorker demanding you protect education standards. Don't weaken oversight of religious schools - our children's futures depend on a complete, quality education. Reject the Governor’s proposal.”

Send an email to our legislative leaders. It will take you less than 30 seconds!

This isn’t about politics. It’s about making sure that every child in New York has the chance to learn and thrive. And that’s something we will never compromise on.

In solidarity,

Zakiyah Shaakir-Ansari and Marina Marcou-O'Malley
Co-Executive Directors, Alliance for Quality Education