The “Finish Your GED in 2013” campaign can help testers with sections of the tests they didn’t pass. For more info go to http://www.gedcompass.org/index.html or call (718) 557-2525.
Showing posts with label education. Show all posts
Showing posts with label education. Show all posts
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
ATTENTION: Finish Your GED
The “Finish Your GED in 2013” campaign can help testers with sections of the tests they didn’t pass. For more info go to http://www.gedcompass.org/index.html or call (718) 557-2525.
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
CM James Urges NYS To Reject DOE Request to Waive Minimum Requirements
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
AUGUST 19, 2013
Contact: Barbara Sherman (212) 788-7081
Council Member Letitia James Urges New York State To Reject DOE Request to Waive Minimum Requirements
Renews Call for DOE to Meet New York State Standards Requiring Librarians In Public Schools
(New York, NY)— In May 2013, following a City Council Committee on Education hearing, Council Member Letitia James called on the New York City Department of Education (DOE) to reach compliance with New York State regarding the number of librarians in public schools. According to data provided by the DOE, there were only 306 librarians employed by the agency citywide at the time. The breakdown included 33 librarians placed in elementary schools, 95 in middle schools, and 178 librarians in public high schools.
Last week, the DOE asked for New York State to grant them a waiver so schools are no longer required to have librarians. Already, more than half of the City’s high schools are in violation of State regulations that requires a specific number of librarians in schools, and the quantity of librarians in our schools have been in a steady decline.
“We cannot lose our school librarians, who are so instrumental to our children’s education and their future success,” said Council Member Letitia James. “College-preparation and career-readiness will be more difficult for students who do not have access to school libraries that teach them invaluable research skills. In light of the DOE’s recent standardized test scores, it would seem the department would work harder to meet this basic standard for student achievement.”
For the Department of Education to be in compliance with State regulations, the DOE would have to hire approximately 280 librarians for placement in middle and high schools at a cost of $24 million. According to the administration’s FY14 Budget, library services for public schools remain flat, while charter school funding will increase by approximately $70 million for the fiscal year.
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AUGUST 19, 2013
Contact: Barbara Sherman (212) 788-7081
Council Member Letitia James Urges New York State To Reject DOE Request to Waive Minimum Requirements
Renews Call for DOE to Meet New York State Standards Requiring Librarians In Public Schools
(New York, NY)— In May 2013, following a City Council Committee on Education hearing, Council Member Letitia James called on the New York City Department of Education (DOE) to reach compliance with New York State regarding the number of librarians in public schools. According to data provided by the DOE, there were only 306 librarians employed by the agency citywide at the time. The breakdown included 33 librarians placed in elementary schools, 95 in middle schools, and 178 librarians in public high schools.
Last week, the DOE asked for New York State to grant them a waiver so schools are no longer required to have librarians. Already, more than half of the City’s high schools are in violation of State regulations that requires a specific number of librarians in schools, and the quantity of librarians in our schools have been in a steady decline.
“We cannot lose our school librarians, who are so instrumental to our children’s education and their future success,” said Council Member Letitia James. “College-preparation and career-readiness will be more difficult for students who do not have access to school libraries that teach them invaluable research skills. In light of the DOE’s recent standardized test scores, it would seem the department would work harder to meet this basic standard for student achievement.”
For the Department of Education to be in compliance with State regulations, the DOE would have to hire approximately 280 librarians for placement in middle and high schools at a cost of $24 million. According to the administration’s FY14 Budget, library services for public schools remain flat, while charter school funding will increase by approximately $70 million for the fiscal year.
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Thursday, July 18, 2013
CM Letitia James Joins UFT At Press Conference Announcing Lawsuit Re: DOE Plans for School Co-locations in Next Mayor’s Term
Today (July 18th) New York City parents and teachers joined United Federation of Teachers (UFT) President Michael Mulgrew and elected officials to protest Mayor Bloomberg's efforts to saddle New York City's next mayor with his failed school policies.
During his final months in City Hall, Mayor Bloomberg is trying to cement plans for a dozen or more co-locations that would not open until long after he leaves office.
The UFT will file a lawsuit Thursday in New York State Supreme Court to stop the Department of Education from starting these co-locations- projects that attempt to bind the next mayoral administration to the same failed education agenda.
"Eight years was enough, and twelve years has been too long-- the DOE is asking us to vote for charter schools housed in public schools years in advance," said Council Member Letitia James. "This is a desperate attempt by DOE to beat the clock-- but we must stop the clock!"
Friday, April 19, 2013
ATTENTION: Education Town Hall; 4/24; Bed-Stuy
WHEN: April 24, 2013
5:30PM- 7:30PM
WHERE: Antioch Baptist Church (Bed-Stuy)
826-828 Greene Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11221
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
ATTENTION: BEOC 2013 College Fair
WHEN: Monday, April 22, 2013
TIME: 3PM- 6PM
LOCATION: Downtown Brooklyn
111 Livingston Street, Rooms 202/203
Brooklyn, NY 11201
(entrance on Boerum Place)
Please call (718) 802-3338 for more information.
Friday, March 22, 2013
CM James Speaks Out On Student Privacy
Councilmember Letitia James stands up for student privacy from Class Size Matters on Vimeo.
Read more about the Department of Education's data-sharing initiative here: http://blogs.villagevoice.com/runninscared/2013/03/data-sharing.php
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
CM James Calls On SUNY Charter Schools Institute to Immediately Investigate Student Suspensions at Success Academy Schools
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
MARCH 12, 2013
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081
Council Member Letitia James Calls On SUNY Charter Schools Institute to Immediately Investigate Student Suspensions at Success Academy Schools
6-Year-Old Charter School Student with IEP Received 20 Suspensions In Single School Year
(New York, NY)— On Thursday, March 14, 2013, Council Member Letitia James will be joining education advocates to request an immediate investigation on the suspension policy for children with Individual Education Plans (IEPs) at the Charter School Success Academy in Cobble Hill Brooklyn, after corresponding with a constituent whose 6-year-old son with an IEP was suspended over twenty times during the school year.
Research shows that chronic absentees in kindergarten have the lowest academic performance in first grade. Because each suspension lasted 2-3 days, the child missed over 50 school days. This child’s IEP required that he have a para-professional (“para”) to shadow him during the school day, however his parent states that the para was removed by the school. Other services he was entitled to were given by teachers who were not certified in special education.
“This is an outrageous mistreatment of this child and his family,” said Council Member James. “Children with special needs are entitled to services whether they attend traditional public schools or charter schools. To punish a child and keep him from the classroom because the resources are not available to help him demonstrates a shocking degree of indifference to his education.”
WHAT: Press Conference calling on SUNY Charter Schools Institute, as well as the Success Academy Board of Trustees and DOE to Investigate Student Suspensions at Success Academy
WHO: Council Member Letitia James, and Education Advocates
WHEN: Thursday, March 14, 2013 1:00 PM
WHERE: Steps of City Hall
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MARCH 12, 2013
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081
Council Member Letitia James Calls On SUNY Charter Schools Institute to Immediately Investigate Student Suspensions at Success Academy Schools
6-Year-Old Charter School Student with IEP Received 20 Suspensions In Single School Year
(New York, NY)— On Thursday, March 14, 2013, Council Member Letitia James will be joining education advocates to request an immediate investigation on the suspension policy for children with Individual Education Plans (IEPs) at the Charter School Success Academy in Cobble Hill Brooklyn, after corresponding with a constituent whose 6-year-old son with an IEP was suspended over twenty times during the school year.
Research shows that chronic absentees in kindergarten have the lowest academic performance in first grade. Because each suspension lasted 2-3 days, the child missed over 50 school days. This child’s IEP required that he have a para-professional (“para”) to shadow him during the school day, however his parent states that the para was removed by the school. Other services he was entitled to were given by teachers who were not certified in special education.
“This is an outrageous mistreatment of this child and his family,” said Council Member James. “Children with special needs are entitled to services whether they attend traditional public schools or charter schools. To punish a child and keep him from the classroom because the resources are not available to help him demonstrates a shocking degree of indifference to his education.”
WHAT: Press Conference calling on SUNY Charter Schools Institute, as well as the Success Academy Board of Trustees and DOE to Investigate Student Suspensions at Success Academy
WHO: Council Member Letitia James, and Education Advocates
WHEN: Thursday, March 14, 2013 1:00 PM
WHERE: Steps of City Hall
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Wednesday, February 6, 2013
CM James Statement on Preliminary Budget Cuts
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
FEBRUARY 1, 2013
Contact: Barbara Sherman (212) 788-7081
Council Member Letitia James Statement on Preliminary Budget Cuts
(New York, NY)— “It concerns me that Mayor Bloomberg’s Preliminary Budget reflects drastic cuts to the most vulnerable— the children of New York City— in proposed slashes to public schools and after-school programs, as well as the reduction of thousands of city-financed child-care slots. This would have a detrimental effect on the quality of our city’s education system, and to the working families who depend on child care.
The administration’s proposed budget would also result in the closing of 20 fire houses, and other essential services that all New Yorkers depend on. I will be working with my colleagues in the City Council, and other stakeholders, to ensure these vital services are not cut.”
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FEBRUARY 1, 2013
Contact: Barbara Sherman (212) 788-7081
Council Member Letitia James Statement on Preliminary Budget Cuts
(New York, NY)— “It concerns me that Mayor Bloomberg’s Preliminary Budget reflects drastic cuts to the most vulnerable— the children of New York City— in proposed slashes to public schools and after-school programs, as well as the reduction of thousands of city-financed child-care slots. This would have a detrimental effect on the quality of our city’s education system, and to the working families who depend on child care.
The administration’s proposed budget would also result in the closing of 20 fire houses, and other essential services that all New Yorkers depend on. I will be working with my colleagues in the City Council, and other stakeholders, to ensure these vital services are not cut.”
###
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
CM James Joins Parents, School Advocates In Rally Against DOE Co-location of Success-Academy Charter School Brooklyn 5
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
October 10, 2012
CONTACT: Barbara Sherman (718) 260-9191 /bsherman@council.nyc.gov
NYC COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES, COMMUNITY EDUCATION COUNCIL 13, PARENTS, STUDENTS, AND ADVOCATES RALLY AGAINST DOE’S PROPOSAL TO CO-LOCATE SUCCESS ACADEMY CHARTER SCHOOL BROOKLYN 5 AT SUSAN MCKINNEY SCHOOL K265
(Brooklyn, NY)-- Please join Council Member Letitia James Thursday, October 11th at 4:00pm at a press conference opposing Eva Moskowitz’s Success-Academy Charter School Brooklyn 5 that will serve K through fifth grade to be co-located with Susan McKinney K265 and P369@265, a secondary school, sixth through twelfth grades in school District 13. The District 13 School Field Office (KN13) and a community based organization Partnership with Children is also located in K265.
The co -location of Success Academy School Brooklyn 5 will compromise and or eliminate the mandated services for District 75 students and students with an Individualized Education Plan (“IEP”). In addition, the co-location will diminish the educational mandate of Susan McKinney Secondary School of the Arts ability to offer classes in drama, chorus, dance, and visual arts to students in grades 6 to 12.
DOE’s Educational Impact Study purports that the school will operate at 102%. Operating at above capacity will endanger students, compromise education, and eliminate state mandated resource rooms for children who attend P369@k265 and students with IEP’s.
DOE’s expansion of charter schools has led to greater inequities, and a higher concentration of need in our district public schools at the same time they have taken up increased amounts of critical space from the district schools that educate the neediest students, including in many cases libraries, classrooms, and intervention spaces leading to unacceptable conditions.
WHO: NYC Council Member Letitia James
WHAT: The New York Department of Education Office of Portfolio proposal to co-locate Success Academy Charter School Brooklyn 5 at Susan McKinney K265 and P369@265
WHEN: Thursday October 11, 2012 4:00PM EST
WHERE: 101 PARK AVENUE BROOKLYN NY 11205
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
CMs James & Viverito Call on DOE to Combat Youth Obesity Through Expanded PE in Public Schools
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
August 6, 2012
Contact: Joe Taranto (CM Mark-Viverito): (917) 535-5531 | jtaranto@council.nyc.gov
Aja Worthy-Davis (CM James): (212) 788-7081 | aworthy-davis@council.nyc.gov
COUNCIL MEMBERS MELISSA MARK-VIVERITO AND LETITIA JAMES CALL ON DOE TO COMBAT YOUTH OBESITY THROUGH EXPANDED PHYSICAL EDUCATION IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
LETTER SIGNED BY 34 COUNCIL MEMBERS CALLS ON CHANCELLOR WALCOTT TO BRING PHYSICAL EDUCATION PROGRAM UP TO STANDARDS, REDUCE DISPARITIES IN LOW-INCOME COMMUNITIES
(New York, NY)— As the Bloomberg administration promotes its proposed ban on the sale of large sugary drinks, Council Members Melissa Mark-Viverito and Letitia James have spearheaded a letter to New York City Department of Education (DOE) Chancellor Dennis Walcott highlighting deficiencies in the City’s physical education (PE) program. The letter, which was signed by 32 other Council Members, points to several studies indicating that the city’s children, particularly in low-income communities of color, are not receiving the minimum required gym classes, despite the important role that regular physical activity plays in reducing obesity.
“With all the attention being placed on the Bloomberg administration’s proposed soda ban, we felt that there was a larger story to tell about how other policy choices by this administration are contributing to the obesity epidemic in this City,” said Council Member Melissa Mark-Viverito. “The disparities between our city’s neighborhoods when it comes to physical education are unacceptable. We look forward to working with the DOE to achieve a marked improvement in the City’s physical education program, particularly in low-income communities of color.”
“Unlike the administration’s ‘soda ban’, the expansion of physical fitness activities and education in schools will go far to teach the benefits of living a healthy lifestyle from an early age.” said Council Member Letitia James, who has been working with “Let’s Move Brooklyn” (part of First Lady Michelle Obama’s national youth fitness campaign) this summer, speaking at their educational panel as well as hosting the “Brooklyn Olympic Fun Day Events” in Bedford-Stuyvesant last month.
According to a recent New York Times article, one in five city high school students reported not having gym class in an average week. Additionally, none of the 31 elementary schools visited by the NYC Comptroller’s Office last year met New York State standards on PE. And a 2012 study conducted by the NYC Strategic Alliance for Health found only 6 out of 74 elementary schools studied were meeting state requirements.
The New York State Education Department requires that PE classes be held every day for students in grades K to 3, and three times a week for grades 4 to 6, for a minimum of 120 minutes a week; and at least 90 minutes a week for grades 7 and 8. Three gym classes a week are required for grades 7 through 12 in one semester, and twice a week in another.
The communication to the Chancellor requested that his office provide the Council with data on the City’s PE program; clarification on the DOE’s policy on PE in co-located schools; and information regarding the DOE’s strategy to improve PE in schools and reduce PE disparities across neighborhoods.
###
August 6, 2012
Contact: Joe Taranto (CM Mark-Viverito): (917) 535-5531 | jtaranto@council.nyc.gov
Aja Worthy-Davis (CM James): (212) 788-7081 | aworthy-davis@council.nyc.gov
COUNCIL MEMBERS MELISSA MARK-VIVERITO AND LETITIA JAMES CALL ON DOE TO COMBAT YOUTH OBESITY THROUGH EXPANDED PHYSICAL EDUCATION IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
LETTER SIGNED BY 34 COUNCIL MEMBERS CALLS ON CHANCELLOR WALCOTT TO BRING PHYSICAL EDUCATION PROGRAM UP TO STANDARDS, REDUCE DISPARITIES IN LOW-INCOME COMMUNITIES
(New York, NY)— As the Bloomberg administration promotes its proposed ban on the sale of large sugary drinks, Council Members Melissa Mark-Viverito and Letitia James have spearheaded a letter to New York City Department of Education (DOE) Chancellor Dennis Walcott highlighting deficiencies in the City’s physical education (PE) program. The letter, which was signed by 32 other Council Members, points to several studies indicating that the city’s children, particularly in low-income communities of color, are not receiving the minimum required gym classes, despite the important role that regular physical activity plays in reducing obesity.
“With all the attention being placed on the Bloomberg administration’s proposed soda ban, we felt that there was a larger story to tell about how other policy choices by this administration are contributing to the obesity epidemic in this City,” said Council Member Melissa Mark-Viverito. “The disparities between our city’s neighborhoods when it comes to physical education are unacceptable. We look forward to working with the DOE to achieve a marked improvement in the City’s physical education program, particularly in low-income communities of color.”
“Unlike the administration’s ‘soda ban’, the expansion of physical fitness activities and education in schools will go far to teach the benefits of living a healthy lifestyle from an early age.” said Council Member Letitia James, who has been working with “Let’s Move Brooklyn” (part of First Lady Michelle Obama’s national youth fitness campaign) this summer, speaking at their educational panel as well as hosting the “Brooklyn Olympic Fun Day Events” in Bedford-Stuyvesant last month.
According to a recent New York Times article, one in five city high school students reported not having gym class in an average week. Additionally, none of the 31 elementary schools visited by the NYC Comptroller’s Office last year met New York State standards on PE. And a 2012 study conducted by the NYC Strategic Alliance for Health found only 6 out of 74 elementary schools studied were meeting state requirements.
The New York State Education Department requires that PE classes be held every day for students in grades K to 3, and three times a week for grades 4 to 6, for a minimum of 120 minutes a week; and at least 90 minutes a week for grades 7 and 8. Three gym classes a week are required for grades 7 through 12 in one semester, and twice a week in another.
The communication to the Chancellor requested that his office provide the Council with data on the City’s PE program; clarification on the DOE’s policy on PE in co-located schools; and information regarding the DOE’s strategy to improve PE in schools and reduce PE disparities across neighborhoods.
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Monday, July 30, 2012
ATTENTION: Back-To-School Supplies Drive
Council Member Letitia James is requesting assistance in securing school supplies for in-need students in the 35th Council District for the 2012-2013 school year.
"It is our duty to invest in our children’s future and what better way to invest than to make sure our young people are equipped and prepared with the tools they need to learn!"- Council Member Letitia James
Donations of pens, pencils, paper, backpacks, notebooks, calculators, protractors, crayons, paint, construction paper, etc. would be greatly appreciated. Collection of these items will be distributed at an event in September in time for the 2012-2013 school year.
If you require any further information, please feel free to contact (718) 260-9191. Thanking you in advance for your consideration and your cooperation.
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
CM James Submits FOIL Request to ACS for EarlyLearn NYC RFP Information
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
May 15, 2012
Contact Simone Hawkins at (212) 788-7081 or shawkins@council.nyc.gov
Council Member Letitia James Submits FOIL Request to ACS for EarlyLearn NYC RFP Information
The New York City Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) released a concept paper and Request for Proposal (RFP)– EarlyLearn NYC- that aims to improve educational standards, raise supports for families, strengthen professional and instructional development for teachers, and encourage socio-economic diversity among participating centers.
On May 4, 2012, ACS released their recommended awardees for EarlyLearn NYC. The 149 selected sites are a combination of existing private and public early care and education services providers. The Administration for Children’s Services evaluated each proposal using three major criteria, which included multiple considerable factors: Demonstrated Quantity and Quality of Successful Relevant Experience (20%), Demonstrated Level of Organizational Capability (40%), and Quality of Proposed Approach (40%). These criteria were pre-approved by the Mayor’s Office of Contract Services, better known as MOCS.
“While I support ACS’ vision for EarlyLearn NYC, I believe the selection methodology and funding formulas set forth in the RFP is contrary to its goal and has ultimately led to the decimation of community staples formerly supported by the City. Centers that served communities for thirty plus years were not selected as ACS devalued a proposer’s relevant experience in the community and its commitment to diversity and culturally sensitive practices as only being worth a sixth of 20% of their total score.
Several centers in my district will be closed as a result of this RFP and many others have been significantly downsized as slots have been diverted to lesser known centers in and around the community. The citywide effect is even more detrimental. Over 6,500 children will be left without a slot come this November as a result of EarlyLearn. I believe something is extremely wrong with this picture and it is our time now to stand up and say enough is enough.
I requested under the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) Request for Records that ACS release any and all scored proposals to the EarlyLearn NYC RFP, justification for specific scores and its relative rank for each proposal, as well as, any and all records of the conduct of negotiations with Agency Chief Contracting Officer and the basis for every determination to continue or suspend negotiations. I expect to receive a response within five business days of ACS’ receipt of my request.
In the interim, I ask that all non-awarded centers request a debriefing date and appeal accordingly. I urge community members to attend the upcoming public hearing and families to participate in the parent forums. The salvation of our communities begins with us.”
###
May 15, 2012
Contact Simone Hawkins at (212) 788-7081 or shawkins@council.nyc.gov
Council Member Letitia James Submits FOIL Request to ACS for EarlyLearn NYC RFP Information
The New York City Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) released a concept paper and Request for Proposal (RFP)– EarlyLearn NYC- that aims to improve educational standards, raise supports for families, strengthen professional and instructional development for teachers, and encourage socio-economic diversity among participating centers.
On May 4, 2012, ACS released their recommended awardees for EarlyLearn NYC. The 149 selected sites are a combination of existing private and public early care and education services providers. The Administration for Children’s Services evaluated each proposal using three major criteria, which included multiple considerable factors: Demonstrated Quantity and Quality of Successful Relevant Experience (20%), Demonstrated Level of Organizational Capability (40%), and Quality of Proposed Approach (40%). These criteria were pre-approved by the Mayor’s Office of Contract Services, better known as MOCS.
“While I support ACS’ vision for EarlyLearn NYC, I believe the selection methodology and funding formulas set forth in the RFP is contrary to its goal and has ultimately led to the decimation of community staples formerly supported by the City. Centers that served communities for thirty plus years were not selected as ACS devalued a proposer’s relevant experience in the community and its commitment to diversity and culturally sensitive practices as only being worth a sixth of 20% of their total score.
Several centers in my district will be closed as a result of this RFP and many others have been significantly downsized as slots have been diverted to lesser known centers in and around the community. The citywide effect is even more detrimental. Over 6,500 children will be left without a slot come this November as a result of EarlyLearn. I believe something is extremely wrong with this picture and it is our time now to stand up and say enough is enough.
I requested under the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) Request for Records that ACS release any and all scored proposals to the EarlyLearn NYC RFP, justification for specific scores and its relative rank for each proposal, as well as, any and all records of the conduct of negotiations with Agency Chief Contracting Officer and the basis for every determination to continue or suspend negotiations. I expect to receive a response within five business days of ACS’ receipt of my request.
In the interim, I ask that all non-awarded centers request a debriefing date and appeal accordingly. I urge community members to attend the upcoming public hearing and families to participate in the parent forums. The salvation of our communities begins with us.”
###
Thursday, April 5, 2012
ATTENTION: UPK Deadline Extended to April 10, 2012
The Department of Education's Pre-K application deadline has been extended to Tuesday, April 10, 2012.Parents can apply to public school pre-k programs online or in person.
Online: If parents would like to apply online, they must submit their application by 11:59 pm on April 10.
In Person: Parents can visit their local enrollment office to fill out a paper application or work with a counselor to complete the online application. The deadline to apply in person at an enrollment office is April 10 at 3:00 pm.
Community-based organization (CBO) pre-kindergarten programs have no specific application deadline. If parents would like to apply to CBO programs, deliver the CBO application directly to each CBO site to which you would like to apply.
For more information about pre-kindergarten admissions—and to see a list of public school and CBO pre-kindergarten programs—visit www.nyc.gov/schools/prek.
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
ATTENTION: Scholarship Opportunities
Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation:
The qualified applicants must be a high school senior or college student; and/or between the ages of 18-25, and pursuing studies at a vocational or trade school. All applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5, be a US Citizen and complete the online application no later than the published deadline date (which is May 15, 2012).
The Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation is unique in that it offers scholarships to single mothers, children who attend alternative schools, students who have earned a GED, and students who have previously been incarcerated, etc. but desire a higher educational opportunity. These groups are generally not the recipients of college scholarships.
The application is available here: http://www.shawncartersf.com/apply/
Nordstrom Scholarship Program
Nordstrom is awarding $10,000 scholarships to 80 outstanding high school students. The Nordstrom Scholarship Program recognizes students across the country for their exceptional scholastic achievement and community involvement.
Those eligible must be high school juniors who plan on applying for financial aid and live and attend school in one of the participating 30 states where Nordstrom currently has a full-line store; have at least a 2.7 GPA (based on a 4.0 scale) throughout high school; volunteer in community services or extracurricular activities; and plan on attending an accredited four-year college or university during the four years over which the scholarship is distributed. The scholarship is paid out in equal installments of $2,500.
The application deadline is May 1, 2012, and those interested may apply here: http://shop.nordstrom.com/c/nordstrom-cares-scholarship
Hispanic Scholarship Foundation/ Macys
The Hispanic Scholarship Fund and Macy's have partnered to provide financial resources to assist outstanding Latino undergraduate students. This scholarship is open to Latino students who are US citizens attending selected universities (see link below). The award amount is $2,500 and will be disbursed in Fall 2012.
Eligible students have a minimum GPA of 3.0, and are enrolled for the 2012-2013 academic year at one of the program's select universities.
The application deadline is May 15, 2012. More information, and the application, is available here: http://www.hsf.net/macys.aspx
The qualified applicants must be a high school senior or college student; and/or between the ages of 18-25, and pursuing studies at a vocational or trade school. All applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5, be a US Citizen and complete the online application no later than the published deadline date (which is May 15, 2012).
The Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation is unique in that it offers scholarships to single mothers, children who attend alternative schools, students who have earned a GED, and students who have previously been incarcerated, etc. but desire a higher educational opportunity. These groups are generally not the recipients of college scholarships.
The application is available here: http://www.shawncartersf.com/apply/
Nordstrom Scholarship Program
Nordstrom is awarding $10,000 scholarships to 80 outstanding high school students. The Nordstrom Scholarship Program recognizes students across the country for their exceptional scholastic achievement and community involvement.
Those eligible must be high school juniors who plan on applying for financial aid and live and attend school in one of the participating 30 states where Nordstrom currently has a full-line store; have at least a 2.7 GPA (based on a 4.0 scale) throughout high school; volunteer in community services or extracurricular activities; and plan on attending an accredited four-year college or university during the four years over which the scholarship is distributed. The scholarship is paid out in equal installments of $2,500.
The application deadline is May 1, 2012, and those interested may apply here: http://shop.nordstrom.com/c/nordstrom-cares-scholarship
Hispanic Scholarship Foundation/ Macys
The Hispanic Scholarship Fund and Macy's have partnered to provide financial resources to assist outstanding Latino undergraduate students. This scholarship is open to Latino students who are US citizens attending selected universities (see link below). The award amount is $2,500 and will be disbursed in Fall 2012.
Eligible students have a minimum GPA of 3.0, and are enrolled for the 2012-2013 academic year at one of the program's select universities.
The application deadline is May 15, 2012. More information, and the application, is available here: http://www.hsf.net/macys.aspx
Friday, March 30, 2012
ATTENTION: CM James To Speak at "Lunch With Legislators" by Women's City Club NYC; 4/23; 12:30PM
On April 23, 2012, Council Member Letitia James will participate in “Lunch with Legislators”, hosted by the Women’s City Club of New York.
The Council Member will be speaking on her accomplishments and future goals; and following her presentation, she will answer questions concerning health, education, and social welfare issues. The event is free: however, seating is limited.
Reserve your seat today!
WHEN: April 23, 2012
12:30PM
WHERE: Women’s City Club of New York
307 Seventh Avenue, Suite 1403
New York, NY 10001
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
ATTENTION: Bed-Stuy Youth Task Force Presents Youth Resource Fair; 3/28; MS35
Bedford Stuyvesant’s Youth Education Safety Task Force presents a Youth Resource Fair. The fair will provide an opportunity to connect young people (up to the age of 24) with resources and opportunities in the Bedford Stuyvesant and surrounding community. The fair will include information on summer programs and youth employment, GED training, college access, arts and recreation, and health.
WHEN: WEDNESDAY, MARCH 28, 2012
4PM- 7PM
WHERE: SCO/ Family Dynamics Beacon Center at MS 35
272 Mac Donough Street
Brooklyn, NY
For more information, contact SCO/ Family Dynamics at 718.453.7004.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
CM James Statement On Proposal to Co-locate Community Roots Charter in PS 287
The NYT-Local has reported that the proposal to co-locate with PS 287 was approved.
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**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
January 17, 2012
Contact Amyre Loomis at (718) 260-9191
COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES’ STATEMENT REGARDING DOE PROPOSAL TO CO-LOCATE COMMUNITY ROOTS CHARTER SCHOOL IN P.S. 287 BUILDING
(Brooklyn, NY)- “In December 2010, Community Roots Charter School (CRCS) was approved for a grade expansion, which will now serve middle school grade levels (grades 6-8). Shortly after, the New York City Department of Education (DOE) proposed to expand CRCS in its existing location in 13K067, which houses a community school, P.S. 67-Charles A. Dorsey and P.S. 369, a District 75 school. After much community push back, the DOE concluded that 13K067 does not offer the capacity to accommodate the expansion of CRCS. In December 2011, the DOE proposed to co-locate Community Roots’ middle school grades in the 13K287 building beginning in the 2012-2013 school year.
13K287 presently houses P.S. 287-Bailey K. Ashford, an existing community school serving kindergarten through fifth grade, and Khalil Gibran International Academy, an existing DOE school serving students in seventh and eighth grade. Khalil Gibran will be re-sited to Community School District 15 next Fall. With the potential available space due to the exodus of Khalil Gibran and the additional underutilized space in P.S. 287, the DOE has found sufficient space within the building to house Community Roots without impeding on the success and growth of P.S. 287 and CRCS. At capacity in 2014 with P.S. 287 and Community Roots Middle School co-located, the building utilization rate will be between 54-71%.
Much like the previous proposal, this plan is causing community unrest and conflict. It is no surprise to anyone that I do not waiver when I’m faced with a bureaucratic challenge or an issue that is undoubtedly wrong, However, I believe that there is sufficient room in the P.S. 287 facility for both schools to fit comfortably and continue to grow for the betterment of District 13 youth.
I stand with all the schools in my Council District and the families who fight for increased educational options for their children. I stand on the side of fairness and transparency. For that I urge parental and community involvement in the DOE significant changes in school utilization process. We need to stand together to grow high-achieving schools in our district like CRCS and P.S. 287. We are the answer to ensure the growth and sustainment of a progressive working environment for our children.”
Council Member Letitia James
35th CD, Brooklyn
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**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
January 17, 2012
Contact Amyre Loomis at (718) 260-9191
COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES’ STATEMENT REGARDING DOE PROPOSAL TO CO-LOCATE COMMUNITY ROOTS CHARTER SCHOOL IN P.S. 287 BUILDING
(Brooklyn, NY)- “In December 2010, Community Roots Charter School (CRCS) was approved for a grade expansion, which will now serve middle school grade levels (grades 6-8). Shortly after, the New York City Department of Education (DOE) proposed to expand CRCS in its existing location in 13K067, which houses a community school, P.S. 67-Charles A. Dorsey and P.S. 369, a District 75 school. After much community push back, the DOE concluded that 13K067 does not offer the capacity to accommodate the expansion of CRCS. In December 2011, the DOE proposed to co-locate Community Roots’ middle school grades in the 13K287 building beginning in the 2012-2013 school year.
13K287 presently houses P.S. 287-Bailey K. Ashford, an existing community school serving kindergarten through fifth grade, and Khalil Gibran International Academy, an existing DOE school serving students in seventh and eighth grade. Khalil Gibran will be re-sited to Community School District 15 next Fall. With the potential available space due to the exodus of Khalil Gibran and the additional underutilized space in P.S. 287, the DOE has found sufficient space within the building to house Community Roots without impeding on the success and growth of P.S. 287 and CRCS. At capacity in 2014 with P.S. 287 and Community Roots Middle School co-located, the building utilization rate will be between 54-71%.
Much like the previous proposal, this plan is causing community unrest and conflict. It is no surprise to anyone that I do not waiver when I’m faced with a bureaucratic challenge or an issue that is undoubtedly wrong, However, I believe that there is sufficient room in the P.S. 287 facility for both schools to fit comfortably and continue to grow for the betterment of District 13 youth.
I stand with all the schools in my Council District and the families who fight for increased educational options for their children. I stand on the side of fairness and transparency. For that I urge parental and community involvement in the DOE significant changes in school utilization process. We need to stand together to grow high-achieving schools in our district like CRCS and P.S. 287. We are the answer to ensure the growth and sustainment of a progressive working environment for our children.”
Council Member Letitia James
35th CD, Brooklyn
###
Monday, December 5, 2011
ATTENTION: BCAP Summer Camp
The much-celebrated Brooklyn Cultural Adventures Program (BCAP), an innovative summer program for kids ages 7-12 which gives them the chance to interact with their local environment and community, is currently open for registration.BCAP Summer Camp is sponsored by Heart of Brooklyn, a unique partnership among six of Brooklyn’s most treasured cultural institutions. All lessons are consistent with New York State Learning Standards and are taught by professional educators. BCAP Summer Camp is licensed by the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and is inspected twice yearly.
BCAP's curriculum theme for Summer 2012 is Myths and Magic. The program is offered in three two-week sessions in summer 2012:
• Session 1: July 2 – July 13
• Session 2: July 16 – July 27
• Session 3: July 30 – August 10
Tuition assistance is offered for qualifying families. For more information or to register, see here.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
CM James Scores A+ On Urban Justice Center- Human Rights Report Card
Council Member Letitia James has scored as A+ on the 2011 Urban Justice Center- Human Rights Report Card. The report card examines Council Members' compliance with universal human rights standards- especially in regards to employment, housing, health, food, education and other economic and social rights.Council Member Letitia James is a supporter of the Council's living wage legislation, and has spoken against Walmart coming to New York City. She was recently part of the leadership that removed a racist anti-abortion billboard in SOHO; and joined with women's advocacy organizations to hold a press conference in support of a fair trial for Nafissatou Diallo, the Guinean housekeeper who accused former IMF head Dominique Strauss-Kahn of sexual assault.
Council Member James sponsored a law that addressed the Department of Corrections reporting to the Council violent incidents involving adolescents in 2009. She has been a strong advocate for restoring childcare vouchers, and fought to avoid the closure of childcare centers Citywide. She sponsored a 35th District Food Conference last term, and continues to work towards increasing green jobs throughout the City.
Council Member James is the sponsor of legislation that would address inequality in City housing, and paid family leave. She can be seen in the Atlantic Yards documentary Battle for Brooklyn, and was a contributer to the documentary The Untold Story of Emmett Louis Till, following her introduction of a City Council resolution to reopen Till's murder case.
Council Member James has scored consistently high scores on the report card (see 2008, 2009, and 2010).
Those interested in reading the report may do so here.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
ATTENTION: FREE Pre-K Seats Still Available At BK Locations
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE** October 13, 2011
Contact: Simone Hawkins at (212) 788-7081
HUNDREDS OF FREE PRE-K SEATS STILL AVAILABLE AT BROOKLYN LOCATIONS
Council Member Letitia James Urges Parents to Enroll Four-Year-Olds Before October 31st Deadline
Brooklyn– Council Member James urges Brooklyn parents to enroll their four-year-olds in free Universal pre-Kindergarten (UPK) classes as full-day and half-day seats remain available at 58 locations around the borough.
All New York City children who turn four years of age by December 31, 2011 are eligible for free UPK seats. Available half-day and full day UPK seats are located at public schools and community-based childcare centers contracted by the Department of Education. UPK offers flexibility in that families can enroll their children in available seats located where they live, where they work, where they go to school or wherever it is convenient for them.
“It is imperative that New York City parents utilize the UPK programs within their communities. With the many cuts to child care services, we must work together to preserve this necessary resource for families. Parents and guardians who rely on this essential service should make sure to contact 311 or the New York City Department of Education to find a center near you before the October 31st deadline. Let us continue to cultivate our communities and children one day at a time.”
Since 2002, the number of four-year-olds enrolled in UPK has increased by over 18,000, with more than 60,000 available seats this year. The City Council and the Bloomberg administration have worked collaboratively with childcare advocates to increase access to pre-kindergarten programs and to ensure their quality over the past six years. However, the majority of funding for UPK comes from state funds, and every year the City is forced to return millions of dollars to the state because UPK seats went unused.
For a full list of programs in your neighborhood that still have seats available, parents can go to City Map on www.nyc.gov, http://schools.nyc.gov/ChoicesEnrollment/PreK or call 311.
Contact: Simone Hawkins at (212) 788-7081
HUNDREDS OF FREE PRE-K SEATS STILL AVAILABLE AT BROOKLYN LOCATIONS
Council Member Letitia James Urges Parents to Enroll Four-Year-Olds Before October 31st Deadline
Brooklyn– Council Member James urges Brooklyn parents to enroll their four-year-olds in free Universal pre-Kindergarten (UPK) classes as full-day and half-day seats remain available at 58 locations around the borough.
All New York City children who turn four years of age by December 31, 2011 are eligible for free UPK seats. Available half-day and full day UPK seats are located at public schools and community-based childcare centers contracted by the Department of Education. UPK offers flexibility in that families can enroll their children in available seats located where they live, where they work, where they go to school or wherever it is convenient for them.
“It is imperative that New York City parents utilize the UPK programs within their communities. With the many cuts to child care services, we must work together to preserve this necessary resource for families. Parents and guardians who rely on this essential service should make sure to contact 311 or the New York City Department of Education to find a center near you before the October 31st deadline. Let us continue to cultivate our communities and children one day at a time.”
Since 2002, the number of four-year-olds enrolled in UPK has increased by over 18,000, with more than 60,000 available seats this year. The City Council and the Bloomberg administration have worked collaboratively with childcare advocates to increase access to pre-kindergarten programs and to ensure their quality over the past six years. However, the majority of funding for UPK comes from state funds, and every year the City is forced to return millions of dollars to the state because UPK seats went unused.
For a full list of programs in your neighborhood that still have seats available, parents can go to City Map on www.nyc.gov, http://schools.nyc.gov/ChoicesEnrollment/PreK or call 311.
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