NYSUT says SED decision adversely impacts students
ALBANY, NY December 27, 2011 -- Commissioner King's decision to cut off funding to School Improvement Grant (SIG) districts will disrupt services to our neediest students and deprive their schools of millions in promised federal funding - in what appears to be an arbitrary exercise of brinksmanship. Instead of requesting a waiver for New York's SIG school districts to give them a reasonable extension of time to construct quality evaluations that support teacher development and growth in student learning, SED is using a blunt instrument - taking away funds that provide essential services for students in our neediest schools.
The US Department of Education recognizes the challenges in getting the evaluation system right and has offered states waivers to provide the necessary additional time to complete this complex work. At least 14 states have received these waivers.
SED's refusal to support local school districts with a waiver request is especially
