AFC works to change education policy so that the public school system serves all children effectively. We publish policy reports and data analyses, testify at the City and State levels, speak out in the press to bring attention to the challenges facing the students and families we serve, and join with other advocates, parents, youth, and educators to call for change.
Leading the Way for NYC Schools: Recommendations for the Next Administration
Based on our experience helping thousands of NYC families each year, we urge the next Mayor to take on big challenges with bold ideas and stand firm in the face of threats to students’ civil rights.
AFC submitted comments to the New York City Department of Education regarding proposed changes to Chancellor’s Regulation A-101 (student admissions, discharges, and transfers), including changes to school selection and enrollment for students in foster care and students in temporary housing.
AFC submitted comments to the New York City Department of Education regarding the response protocol for cases of unexplained absence with respect to students with current or recent child welfare involvement.
This December 2016 report analyzes access to high school-level career and technical education (CTE) programs for students with disabilities in New York State. Based on data findings and interviews with professionals, special education advocates, and parents of students with disabilities, the paper makes recommendations for addressing barriers to CTE.
AFC testified at an oversight hearing held by the New York City Council Committees on Fire and Criminal Justice Services jointly with the Committee on Juvenile Justice and the Committee on Education. Our testimony includes recommendations for improving the quality of education for youth in detention, placement, and incarceration, and after their release from these settings.
AFC submitted testimony to the New York City Council Committee on Education with recommendations for addressing bullying in New York City public schools and supporting LGBTQ students, students with disabilities, and other vulnerable populations.
AFC submitted comments in response to the New York State Education Department’s proposed plan to promote inclusion among preschool and school-age students with disabilities.
AFC testified before the New York City Council Committee on Education regarding access to Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs for students with disabilities and English Language Learners (ELLs). CTE is shown to help keep at-risk students – such as ELLs and students with disabilities – engaged and on-track for graduation; but while students with disabilities and ELLs generally do well in the city’s CTE programs, both groups are underrepresented among CTE students.
AFC submitted comments to the New York City Department of Education regarding proposed changes to Chancellor’s Regulation A-101 regarding school transfers, admissions, and enrollment.
AFC testified at the DOE’s hearing on proposed changes to the Discipline Code. Our testimony focuses on the proposals to ban suspensions for students in kindergarten through second grade, require schools to document supports and interventions used, and expand the options for the length of suspensions.
Our Back to School resource hub has deadlines, helpful links, and more need-to-know information for students, families, and professionals as the school year gets started.
