Schools

School choice for elementary school children has grown over the past several years, but timing is everything. Expand your options by investigating the NYC Department of Education website to see what kinds of application opportunities are available in your district.

For those parents who are about to embark on the exciting but time-sensitive high school application process, we strongly recommend attending the upcoming Citywide High School Fairs and Borough High School Fairs.

Today, the New York City Department of Education posted a letter and information for parents about Phase 1 Education Reform on the DOE website. 

The first day of school for all New York City public school students is Wednesday, September 8.

Are general ed teachers prepared to teach students with disabilities?

New York City schools enrolled 14,000 more students than had been projected and about half of them require special education services, School Chancellor Klein said this week.

Since the transition process for students with disabilities from preschool to kindergarten can be complicated, it is especially helpful to have current information.

The NYC Department of Education recently released its 2009-2010 Turning Five Orientation Guide, an orientation guide for students with disabilities transitioning from preschool to school-age programs.

This is the first week to submit a kindergarten application if your child is turning five this year. Kindergarten registration is recommended for all parents, including those that have children with disabilities. In addition to registering at your zoned school, you can also apply for admission at other schools.

Key Dates

• Feb 1 - March 12, 2010: Submit your application
• March 22, 2010: Schools notify families about assignment offer
• April 12 - 23, 2010: Kindergarten pre-registration period (with child)
  

I just returned from a 2-day meeting in Albany called “On the Same Page: A Summit for Family Engagement in Education”.  This state-wide initiative, which is beginning its second year, brings together parents, educators, state and local officials, technical assistance providers, and community organizations to develop and recommend policies to the New York State Regents about improving outcomes for students through more effective engagement of families in schools.

For those parents who are about to embark on the exciting but time-sensitive high school application process, we would like to gently remind you of the upcoming Citywide High School Fairs and Borough Wide High School Fairs.  

This is your chance to meet, greet, and ask questions — don't be shy!