Submitted by Edw. Macomb, Mar 1, 2007 16:54

Ten Stuyvesant H. S. parents have just returned from the CRAINS sponsored "Breakast Forum w/ Chacellor Klein". We purchased the table outright as concerned parents, after a presentation by Brigitte Aponte (on 14 February), Region 4 Parent Support Office on the latest "CHILDREN FIRST A Bold, Common-Sense Plan to Create Great Schools for all Children". Why did we pay for this $600 table? To quote Ms. Aponte (who was trying her best) "I can't answer any questions as I don't have any details to tell you...go to the DOE web-site and you'll know as much as I do."

So we did and let me be clear. No parent accepts the travesty at the worst performing schools. We completely agree it has gone on too long. We understand 'bureaucratic inertia' and basically support our Mayor's attempt to "take charge and take responsibility". Having said that, let's return to the Chancellors new plan. Proceeding to page 18 on the web-site under "Proposed weight ranges for Fair Student Funding" we find "Dollars per student" Gifted and talented students" BLANK(!)

and I quote again,

"Under consideration for 2008-2009"

Frankly, this parent's view is NYC's specialized schools are the shining gems in our school system. Like Wall St., Lincoln Center, MOMA, Central Park, our hospitals, our media, these are the jewels that make New York City the greatest city in the world. These specialized schools are one of the main reasons we draw the talented people from the best in the world to live and work and raise a family here. Our specialized schools are what ALL schools look to as an example of what can be done. To leave this crucial budget "Under consideration" is to miss the boat entirely and speaks to the hurried nature of this, now third, "revolutionary new plan".

With record City tax receipts, a newly signed teacher pay package, a talented and energetic Mayor's office, we can certainly address, each and every student's educational needs.

Respectfully,

Edward & Susanna Macomb

freshman parents @ Stuyvesant

(212) 629 7550 xt 16 work

(212) 663 1337 home

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