WEBVTT 00:01:17.000 --> 00:01:24.000 Good evening and welcome to District 28 town hall featuring Chancellor Kamar H. Samuels. 00:01:24.000 --> 00:01:34.000 If. My name is Jayden Moses of class 8 10 and I proudly serve as a student government president of MS. 00:01:34.000 --> 00:01:43.000 On behalf of our entire executive board, it is my distinct honor to welcome you this evening. We sincerely appreciate your presence and participation. 00:01:43.000 --> 00:01:49.000 At MS. 2 17, we are united by a shared commitment to lifelong learning and student growth. 00:01:49.000 --> 00:02:00.000 We strive to cultivate integrity, reflection, critical thinking, kindness, and a strong sense of responsibility toward one another and our planet. 00:02:00.000 --> 00:02:10.000 In partnership with our families, we are dedicated to empowering students to find their voices, embrace challenges, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. 00:02:10.000 --> 00:02:26.000 Our school is a place where every voice matters through student government. We actively promote leadership and civic engagement, ensuring that students have authentic opportunities to express their ideas and help shape positive change within our school community. 00:02:26.000 --> 00:02:37.000 Without further ado, it is my pleasure to introduce to our principal, Miss Tushman. Thank you again for joining us this evening. 00:02:37.000 --> 00:02:46.000 Good evening. Good evening esteemed community of the great 28. Let's hear it. 00:02:46.000 --> 00:02:51.000 I'm gonna keep it brief. I just want to welcome you all to middle school, to 17. 00:02:51.000 --> 00:03:00.000 We are a proud community of exceptional staff, students and families and I think everybody got to see a little glimpse of that tonight. 00:03:00.000 --> 00:03:13.000 Can we hear a round of applause for our band? Our dance? Our chorus. Men of strength and our young women of power who are serving foods, setting up tables. 00:03:13.000 --> 00:03:16.000 Let's hear it for them. 00:03:16.000 --> 00:03:23.000 We are humbled to host this event this evening and I am so proud to see all of you with us tonight. 00:03:23.000 --> 00:03:43.000 Before we get started with the Chancellor, good evening, Chancellor. Before we get started officially, we do have some students who would like to give a small token of appreciation from the great 28 to Chancellor Samuels and to the team from the CEC up here this evening. 00:03:43.000 --> 00:03:57.000 We also want to celebrate one of our students and her talent, Andrea, Burgos, Beatrice, who has drawn a portrait of the Chancellor to present to him this evening. 00:03:57.000 --> 00:04:12.000 Go on, get up there and shine. 00:04:12.000 --> 00:04:20.000 Andrea has hand drawn a beautiful portrait of Chancellor Samuels. And she just wanted to have the moment to give it to her herself. 00:04:20.000 --> 00:04:25.000 So we just want to applaud her. 00:04:25.000 --> 00:04:32.000 I think she did a pretty good job. 00:04:32.000 --> 00:04:46.000 Okay, thank you guys for giving us that moment. It was really special and important. So without further ado, I am going to hand off the mic to CEC of the grade 28 president Quentin Mesaton. 00:04:46.000 --> 00:05:11.000 Quentin. 00:05:11.000 --> 00:05:16.000 Good evening, everyone. Is it on? Guys, okay. Good evening, everyone. 00:05:16.000 --> 00:05:24.000 Welcome to the CEC District 28 Town Hall. Give us a hand real quick. 00:05:24.000 --> 00:05:30.000 Thank you. My name is Quentin Mesaton. I am the president of the CEC. 00:05:30.000 --> 00:05:41.000 28 and Tonight we're going to host our special guests Chancellor Kamar Samuel. 00:05:41.000 --> 00:05:50.000 So we thank you in advance for your patience this evening and as we take one more moment to ensure that those waiting, wishing to ask access the interpretation can do so. 00:05:50.000 --> 00:06:20.000 So interpreters. Please announce your respective instructions in order. Spanish interpreters. Can you please make the announcement at this time? 00:06:22.000 --> 00:06:52.000 Not just our totals or idea, Mariselle, like Klasenura, Graciela, S other Conferesa case, Unao Seesiro, CS in Conway, or Chono, and I'm, a, a, a, a, a, a, a, in, a, a, in, a, in, a, Thank you. 00:06:53.000 --> 00:07:22.000 Arabic. Interpreters. Can you please make the announcement at this time? Myself here, Alesseder, Robinfield, Estanator, Gemma for Rio, the law, Arabia, at Tawaji. 00:07:22.000 --> 00:07:27.000 Hampsa, or bar. Seta, Sabbath, I said, that the manniobad is alike. Let's shoot back portopane. 00:07:27.000 --> 00:07:37.000 Thank you. Thank you. Bangladesh interpreters. Can you please make the announcement at this time? 00:07:37.000 --> 00:08:01.000 Good evening. She was on the Okay, I'm Jensen, meeting, But Shad, Buchet, the original, Bangladesh, on what? 00:08:01.000 --> 00:08:13.000 Could it, I'm, I'm, a, a, Kajikunuru, should be the Okay. 00:08:13.000 --> 00:08:20.000 Donovan, thank you. Thank you. Russian interpreters, can you please make your announcement at this time? 00:08:20.000 --> 00:08:50.000 Good evening. Doberra be sure. Where's I'm my question. Go ahead, I mean, Wash out how, Luo Yu Shia will go you find you the Don't hold me enough. 00:09:22.000 --> 00:09:33.000 Find you already, you won't hold chin to the great one. So it wants on upon your loo or sure go you find Thank you. 00:09:33.000 --> 00:09:41.000 Thank you. Thank you, interpreters. And I just want to remind everyone, please speak slowly and clearly for the interpreters. 00:09:41.000 --> 00:09:51.000 Alright, again, good evening everyone and thank you for joining us tonight at art. Community Education Council for 28 Town Hall. 00:09:51.000 --> 00:10:00.000 Once again, my name is Quentin Meserton and I am the president of District 28 CC and our special guest tonight of course is the one and only chanceer Kamar H. 00:10:00.000 --> 00:10:08.000 S. To begin, I would like to extend warm wishes of Ramadan Kareem to our Muslim community. 00:10:08.000 --> 00:10:11.000 And warm wishes to our Christian community observing Lent. We are especially grateful to those who have joined us this evening while observing Ramadan and Lent. 00:10:11.000 --> 00:10:25.000 Your president, your presence is deeply appreciated and we apologize for any inconvenience this timing may have caused. 00:10:25.000 --> 00:10:38.000 CC. 28 needs the voices of our District 28 families. We need your guidance and that is the reason we are so excited to host this town hall with our Chancellor this evening. 00:10:38.000 --> 00:10:43.000 We want the Chancellor to hear your important questions. Concerns and priorities. We will get through as many questions as we can this evening. 00:10:43.000 --> 00:10:56.000 And on behalf of the Community Education Council of District 28, we thank you for your attendance, dedication to the students and families of this district. 00:10:56.000 --> 00:11:09.000 Thank you. And as we get started, I like to take this. Time to introduce my team. Our amazing council members and outstanding administrative assistant. 00:11:09.000 --> 00:11:15.000 In the audience. When you hear your name, please stand and shout, what's your call? 00:11:15.000 --> 00:11:22.000 Just stand and give a wave, you know, get a little shout. Our 1st vice president is online, Lauren Clavin. 00:11:22.000 --> 00:11:26.000 So could give her a hand while she's online. 00:11:26.000 --> 00:11:36.000 Thank you. Our second vice president. Jennifer Silvers. 00:11:36.000 --> 00:11:43.000 Our recording secretary Chantelle Chambers. 00:11:43.000 --> 00:11:50.000 Our treasurer, Alicia. Okay, the power. 00:11:50.000 --> 00:11:58.000 Our Queensborough appointee, Kenya Townsend. 00:11:58.000 --> 00:12:03.000 Our council member lose out. 00:12:03.000 --> 00:12:09.000 Councilmember Annie Coke. 00:12:09.000 --> 00:12:16.000 Councilmember Paqueta Williams. 00:12:16.000 --> 00:12:21.000 Councilmember Eric Grech. 00:12:21.000 --> 00:12:28.000 And councilmember Cecily Zoo. 00:12:28.000 --> 00:12:36.000 And we have the best administrative assistant in all the districts, Dorinda. 00:12:36.000 --> 00:12:40.000 Okay. 00:12:40.000 --> 00:12:52.000 And I would also like to introduce the great District 28 Superintendent Dr. Eric Blake. 00:12:52.000 --> 00:13:02.000 Hey. Now, with that round of applause, you got to share some remarks. 00:13:02.000 --> 00:13:12.000 It's a good. Could you have in this community? It's an honor to sit here with you today as we come together to celebrate. 00:13:12.000 --> 00:13:23.000 The incredible work happening across our district, the Great 28. Tonight we are privileged to welcome Chancellor Samuel and members of his cabinet. 00:13:23.000 --> 00:13:33.000 Thank you for your leadership. Sandra Sammers and for your commitment to the students and families. Off the great, new up New York City and of course a great 28. 00:13:33.000 --> 00:13:45.000 We are also grateful to our community council, CC, and elected officials. And all our partners who continue to advocate for strong, equitable public schools. 00:13:45.000 --> 00:13:53.000 To our principles and audience, teachers, school staff. Students, your dedication shapes the deal experiences of your children. 00:13:53.000 --> 00:14:03.000 And we appreciate everything you do. To our students, you are the heart of this district. You're curiosity, your resilience and your voices inspire all of us. 00:14:03.000 --> 00:14:17.000 And to our families. Thank you for your trust. Your partnership and your unwavering support. Finally, district 28 is a community that thrives because we show up for one another. 00:14:17.000 --> 00:14:32.000 Together we are building schools where every child is seen, supported, and powered to succeed. Welcome everyone and we're glad to have you here today. 00:14:32.000 --> 00:14:45.000 It is now our steam pleasure. To welcome the one and only in New York City, Chancellor Kamar Samuels. 00:14:45.000 --> 00:14:51.000 Alright, well, maybe it's because I've been to 28 a couple of times. 00:14:51.000 --> 00:14:58.000 That's, you know, that I have to say that's a bigger welcome from a CEC that I that I typically get so I appreciate that I appreciate that so much. 00:14:58.000 --> 00:15:08.000 Thank you President Clinton. It's not, so how do you say, mesot, mesoton? 00:15:08.000 --> 00:15:11.000 Yes, so there you go. I know I kind of know him as since I've been here a couple of times. 00:15:11.000 --> 00:15:26.000 So thank you. And also the rest of CC, 28 members. Thank you so much for your work and all you do on behalf of our young people every single day. 00:15:26.000 --> 00:15:36.000 28 students and families. Thank you for being here. I am really honored and privileged to sit next to a great superintendent, Dr. 00:15:36.000 --> 00:15:42.000 Eric Brake. 00:15:42.000 --> 00:15:52.000 Thank you to Principal Angela Touchman and the staff here at JHS Sure. 00:15:52.000 --> 00:16:11.000 2 17. Thank you so much for hosting us. District 28 presidents council president Giselle Mendoza PTA president Richelle Bruno, Vice President Michelle Lim, Vanessa Ruiz, and executive board members, Elizabeth Sanchez, Kalima. 00:16:11.000 --> 00:16:22.000 Davis and Roselle Kule. Our elected officials, I'm not sure, you know, Donovan is a tall guy, so I don't think I've seen. Okay. 00:16:22.000 --> 00:16:30.000 Okay, okay. Hi, how are you? And a council member is here and 00:16:30.000 --> 00:16:39.000 And so, you know, and as they, as we come in, share the names so I can make sure I acknowledge the folks who need to be acknowledged. 00:16:39.000 --> 00:16:52.000 I want to wish everyone a happy woman's history month. And as as well as of course as your president said to our families who celebrate a happy Ramadan Mubarak as well as a blessed length to everyone. 00:16:52.000 --> 00:17:07.000 I'm thrilled to be joined here though by my new cabinet who is I'm thrilled to be joined here though by my new cabinet who is I'm thrilled to be joined here though by my new cabinet who is over there that we had known so updated our chart earlier this month. 00:17:07.000 --> 00:17:13.000 And these, yeah. And these incredible leaders are joining, joining me in forwarding this work and accelerating so much of the great things that we're doing in New York City public schools. 00:17:13.000 --> 00:17:30.000 I wanted though to specifically introduce you to our new Deputy Chancellor of Family Partnership and Community Support. 00:17:30.000 --> 00:17:35.000 Yeah. 00:17:35.000 --> 00:17:38.000 Yes. I want to share a little bit about myself, you know, despite how I look. I've been doing this for more than 20 years. 00:17:38.000 --> 00:17:52.000 People always say, you've been around that long. Yes. And you know, I started in the New York City public schools as a teaching fellow in the Bronx. 00:17:52.000 --> 00:17:57.000 I served as a principal and superintendent across the Bronx, Brooklyn and Manhattan. 00:17:57.000 --> 00:18:04.000 I'm also a parent of to current public school students. I have 3 students, but 2 of them are in public schools. 00:18:04.000 --> 00:18:14.000 One is 3 so she'll be that just shows you I got a lot going on at home. 00:18:14.000 --> 00:18:27.000 For your education. You not only. Not not not only are you doing this for yourself, but I absolutely believe you're doing this for me as well as a parent in the system. 00:18:27.000 --> 00:18:34.000 You know, I just, just to, I want to make this brief. So just before, because I know you, you all have a lot of questions. 00:18:34.000 --> 00:18:43.000 But I do wanna just focus on, a couple of priorities that we have. I believe, you know, our schools should be safe. 00:18:43.000 --> 00:18:57.000 Our schools should be academically rigorous and certainly truly integrated. I believe safety is critical not only our physical safety but the sense of belonging and student voice that we see in schools. 00:18:57.000 --> 00:19:05.000 I believe in supporting our most vulnerable students, especially our students in time for a housing, our students with disabilities, our multilingual learners. 00:19:05.000 --> 00:19:30.000 I think that is really, really critical to the work that we do. We ought to make sure that we have academically rigorous schools and I'm excited I visited a classroom in District 28 I'm excited to continue to work we're doing what New York City reeds and New York City solves with New York City solves I really think it's time that as city we embark on a revolution in in math instruction 00:19:30.000 --> 00:19:41.000 and how we approach math in our city. You know, MTSS is ensuring that every students get exactly what they need and for those of you, it sounds really clunky. 00:19:41.000 --> 00:19:55.000 MTSS. It's really what it is. It's just making sure that if a student, for every student there is a time in a day that they're getting access to the interventions that they need and that there are several tiers of support that we are embarking on in school. 00:19:55.000 --> 00:20:00.000 And so, you know, we think that that is critically important, especially for students with disabilities and our multilingual learners. 00:20:00.000 --> 00:20:16.000 I also believe in, you know, true integration and and District 28 is a very diverse district and I believe it's about the holistic school experience. 00:20:16.000 --> 00:20:19.000 It's not only demographics, but it's also about what's happening in the classroom. 00:20:19.000 --> 00:20:29.000 All of our students exposed to interdisciplinary learning, are they exposed to culture responsive teaching practices? 00:20:29.000 --> 00:20:38.000 And so to close, I wanted to share some key data points about District 28. About your student achievement as well as your finance. 00:20:38.000 --> 00:20:58.000 You know as we think about this we can help us to frame the discussion under 2,000 the 2025 new york state exam district 28 proficiency grew 8.2% in eLA and 00:20:58.000 --> 00:20:59.000 It's proof you know what you know what's going on. It's cool if you know what you're doing. 00:20:59.000 --> 00:21:17.000 So 8.2 percentage points in the LA and in math 5.7 percentage points both both of which outpace the city's growth which is 7.2 points in ELA and 3.5 points in mathematics. 00:21:17.000 --> 00:21:22.000 So that's really strong movement. 00:21:22.000 --> 00:21:29.000 So, and, and as of, and as of October, District 28 has designated over 596 million dollars to support their students instructional needs. 00:21:29.000 --> 00:21:39.000 This is out of a 17 billion dollars to support their students instructional needs. This is out of a 17 billion dollars budget. 00:21:39.000 --> 00:21:49.000 Designated by K through 12 schools citywide. These numbers may increase as schools in district 28 and across the city continue to receive allocations. 00:21:49.000 --> 00:21:54.000 I am super excited to partner with you and I hope. I hope to see many of you though on our tours, right? 00:21:54.000 --> 00:21:57.000 We are actually coming to Queens. We're coming back to Queens tomorrow, I think, tomorrow evening. 00:21:57.000 --> 00:22:09.000 My cabinet is like, I didn't sign up for all these nights. But, I'm coming, I'm coming back, sorry, you can't say no, anyone. 00:22:09.000 --> 00:22:16.000 I'm coming back to Queens tomorrow. We have an event at the Queens Innovation Center. 00:22:16.000 --> 00:22:23.000 And so I'm looking forward to see as many of you as possible there as we come, we continue our conversations with our Chancellor. 00:22:23.000 --> 00:22:30.000 Thank you so much. You. 00:22:30.000 --> 00:22:35.000 The Great 28. We know we're great, but this sounds good when we're just retold that. 00:22:35.000 --> 00:22:47.000 I love that. So thank you, Chancellor. And we'll now begin with the questions that we have received from surveying the community in advance of this town hall and through the town hall preregistration. 00:22:47.000 --> 00:23:02.000 These questions will be asked by me and other council members up here. Councilmember Annie Coke, Alicia Bauer, Chantelle Chambers, Kenya Townsend, Jennifer Sobers, and Piqueta Williams. 00:23:02.000 --> 00:23:08.000 Let's start with the questions. Our 1st question. 00:23:08.000 --> 00:23:17.000 In District 28, many of our schools and intersections are experiencing ongoing shortages of school safety agents and crossing guards. 00:23:17.000 --> 00:23:35.000 Families have raised concerns and they have already been incidents that highlight the risk. What a immediate steps is the department taking to address the shortage and what is the long-term plan to recruit and retain enough safety personnel to properly protect our students? 00:23:35.000 --> 00:23:40.000 Yeah, Some people are just, they just know when. The chance is going to need them to respond to. 00:23:40.000 --> 00:23:55.000 But before the mark goes. I do want to as you know and as I said in my remarks safety is something that is critical to me, safety is something that is critical to me. 00:23:55.000 --> 00:24:25.000 I think when our schools are safe, our families. O. So much better and I think, you know, it's important to me to not just you know, have a feeling of safety, but actually have safety in our schools and one of the ways that we know we that's critically important to us is that relationships in schools it's not just I know the question is about school safety agents and so on but we 00:24:27.000 --> 00:24:37.000 should never think that our safety is built on only one person or 2 people. Your safety is driven by. 00:24:37.000 --> 00:24:51.000 The the open communication and strong relationships that you have with each and every adult in the school as well as the young people in the school. 00:24:51.000 --> 00:25:03.000 Why at the airport even with all the metallatitis and everything that there is you see something you say something message that you also hear there, right? 00:25:03.000 --> 00:25:11.000 Because That is actually how we are going to make sure that we are safe is when we are connecting as. 00:25:11.000 --> 00:25:32.000 As a community and I see this all over the city and also I think when we involve our young people in the decision-making in schools when they feel that sense of belonging, I think, safety is wrapped up in all those things but Mark I mean I wanna I wanted to invite you to kinda address some of this as well. 00:25:32.000 --> 00:25:41.000 Yeah, thank you Chancellor and thank you for the question. Good evening. 28. Good evening. 28. 00:25:41.000 --> 00:25:48.000 I mean. So we have some friends there. So thank you very much for the question. Listen, safety and security is paramount, right? 00:25:48.000 --> 00:25:56.000 So when we think about safety as a chancellor said, we automatically think about the physical safety, not the emotional safety of our young people. 00:25:56.000 --> 00:26:01.000 And we think about the responsibility. I hear it all over the city. I need another agent. I need more agents. 00:26:01.000 --> 00:26:05.000 I need more agents. Agents are not who make school safe. We appreciate the the great work that agents do. 00:26:05.000 --> 00:26:09.000 They are part of the school community and we do agree that schools need more agents gone the day where we had 15 school safety agents in one school. 00:26:09.000 --> 00:26:25.000 Now we have to rely on 5, 4, 3, 2, and sometimes. One, look at the principles in the back. 00:26:25.000 --> 00:26:31.000 One, right? So here's the thing. That one school safety agent has the same ability as the 5. 00:26:31.000 --> 00:26:35.000 And when I say that, I mean they have the entire city at their hands. Aggressively aggressively seek more school safety agents. 00:26:35.000 --> 00:26:46.000 It is a time consuming task. School safety was at 5,000 and now down to 3,700 agents. 00:26:46.000 --> 00:26:57.000 They have noun created a different way by which they create a path for our high school students to become school safety agents by creating the assistant school safety agent program. 00:26:57.000 --> 00:27:00.000 It's a program that's designated for a single agent where they're single agents in the school and that's in our elementary schools, but we continue to fight on your behalf. 00:27:00.000 --> 00:27:18.000 Just note, just because the fight's not public. Just because you don't hear about it doesn't mean that this administration is not continuing to push to ensure the safety and security in our schools. 00:27:18.000 --> 00:27:25.000 Every time I hear that an agent hasn't shown up in a building. Every time I hear that an agent has been pulled out of a building, we fight aggressively on your behalf. 00:27:25.000 --> 00:27:27.000 But I do want you to just keep in mind that safety and security is all of our fundamental responsibilities and that's not a job left up to one person. 00:27:27.000 --> 00:27:44.000 We hear you loud and clear and we're continuing to fight. And for those of you who are having the issue with this the crossing guards, please reach out to my office. 00:27:44.000 --> 00:27:50.000 Percent for those of you who don't know and you can find me an outlook like many of you do. 00:27:50.000 --> 00:27:51.000 Too many time? No, like many of you do, and please uplift continue to uplift a your safety agent. 00:27:51.000 --> 00:28:05.000 Concerns and the issues with the crossing guards. We work in lockstep with our partners in the NYPD and we've been super successful in every case where we need the crossing guard of the school. 00:28:05.000 --> 00:28:16.000 So thank you very much for the question. Alright, thank you. Our next question will come from council member Alicia Bauer. 00:28:16.000 --> 00:28:26.000 Chancellor, s, many of our public schools across the district. Require critical repairs and technology upgrades. 00:28:26.000 --> 00:28:42.000 And working with the school construction authority, SCA, we have noticed that principals and school communities often have limited visibility into the progress of construction projects, or within their own buildings. 00:28:42.000 --> 00:29:00.000 Similarly, community education council sometimes funded challenging, find it challenging to effectively advocate for neighborhood needs. When the reason the clear way to track capital requests and project timelines. 00:29:00.000 --> 00:29:12.000 Currently, much of the communication relies on individual email exchanges. Which can make it difficult for school leaders and parents to stay consistently informed. 00:29:12.000 --> 00:29:26.000 Is there an opportunity? For you administration in partnership with the school construction authority to explore in more modern and transparent system that the school and CCs. 00:29:26.000 --> 00:29:37.000 The to easily track project progress. Improve communication and streamline the capital request process. So communities can better support the work being done. 00:29:37.000 --> 00:29:46.000 Such a great question. And, you know, as a superintendent. When I was a superintendent, this was a huge issue for me, right? 00:29:46.000 --> 00:30:16.000 One of the things is that You know, maybe once per year the SCA might come and they might say something for in our case when the SCA came, you know, I didn't as a superintendent feel like their engagement process where was meeting the needs of our community and we launched a huge effort as a result partner superintendents partnering with the with the CC where we submitted our report at the time. 00:30:18.000 --> 00:30:41.000 To because we were part of a pilot program. Where we looked at all of our buildings and and part of the issue is that a lot of our lot of our principals even and a lot of communities don't know the distinction between the office of school, the department of school facilities at NYCO, the Department of School, the Department of School, the Department of School Facilities at NYC Public Schools and 00:30:41.000 --> 00:30:43.000 what the Department of School Facilities at NYC Public Schools and what responsibilities, right? 00:30:43.000 --> 00:30:54.000 That's 1 of the main the because and then part of it is because you know, our folks can by the department or school for cities can actually do a lot to upgrade buildings and so on. 00:30:54.000 --> 00:31:05.000 And so it's not as clear for principals. What's a capital need versus what's, can be done at the school level. 00:31:05.000 --> 00:31:15.000 And so that's 1 of the things that we do need to work on. And, and, and secondly, many of our principals, I know, I know when I was a principal, I didn't start thinking about SSCA and those things until like my 3rd year, right? 00:31:15.000 --> 00:31:34.000 Because there's so many things that you get to deal with. So that's another thing just in terms of making sure our principles are supported in what they can look for, who they can talk to when they can can actually address these things. 00:31:34.000 --> 00:31:52.000 And finally, I think. You know, we, when the elected official that gives us you know gives the school some kind of, whether it's resili or just a huge, sometimes a huge amount of money. 00:31:52.000 --> 00:32:05.000 You know by the time we have to make sure that we we know that the timeliness of that happening that work happening is important because, you know. 00:32:05.000 --> 00:32:08.000 $500,000 today. Is less 2 years from now. You can't buy the same thing, right? 00:32:08.000 --> 00:32:38.000 Exactly. And so, so it's critical to me as trying to slow that we continue to really, I continue to advocate in this seat on behalf of districts and schools with SCA to make sure that we move that more quickly and that's why I think our Our for our Deputy Chancellor of School Operations, Kevin Moran will talk a little bit more and some more about what are some of the ways where 00:32:40.000 --> 00:32:48.000 streamlining, processes with SCA. All right. Thank you. And thank you for hosting today. 00:32:48.000 --> 00:32:49.000 CEC, 28, the grade 28. I'll get my plug-in to president. 00:32:49.000 --> 00:32:59.000 And so that's an awesome question. It cuts to the heart of the issue. And the core question is, it cuts to the hardly issue. 00:32:59.000 --> 00:33:09.000 And the core question is, do we have a more modern system to track, monitor, another report on our facilities and the state of affairs within our buildings. 00:33:09.000 --> 00:33:17.000 A lot of the work had to happen internally on the New York City public school side. So one of the things we did is we started putting our building information on the website. 00:33:17.000 --> 00:33:36.000 And so the year it was built, the Air Management plans were the asbestos. And then sort of putting out on the building the attributes of the building like I can tell you there's 68 instructional spaces in this building right now 66 have function A/C the gymnasium and this order term do not have A/C but that would help inform some of your CEC requests and saying look I want a capital 00:33:36.000 --> 00:33:48.000 upgrade to the principals in the room. Having spent 20 years in the system, I realized there's a fundamental lack of visibility for you on a project award, a project scope. 00:33:48.000 --> 00:33:55.000 And a timeline for completion with an estimated date. Therefore, the chancellors port a point we could track the scope and the completion. 00:33:55.000 --> 00:34:02.000 That actually right now, I know there's a resume room job in within your on your web page right now. 00:34:02.000 --> 00:34:08.000 So I know there's that's posted so we're starting to do that work but to the finer point of the end to end system. 00:34:08.000 --> 00:34:23.000 That is something we're working on with the SEA now to make sure we can manage all the data and actually we have an end to end system that will do the everything that you're asking for because the Becast survey is more of a PDF version, whereas we want your, what you're saying your question is a more modern system. 00:34:23.000 --> 00:34:32.000 That will happen, and we'll be more transparent for principals to make sure every pro every program you get or capital award you get will be tracked monitored and reported on. 00:34:32.000 --> 00:34:33.000 So great question and more to come. We'll follow up. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. 00:34:33.000 --> 00:34:57.000 And I, and I do want to acknowledge. Capital in Zapata who is the representative from donovan riches his office and and specifically because if he was here he would tell you queens get the money Yeah. 00:34:57.000 --> 00:35:10.000 All right, our next question. This one's by me. Families continue to report gaps in special education services, including inconsistent speech therapy delivery and provider shortages. 00:35:10.000 --> 00:35:18.000 Delays in AAC device access or repairs and efficient classroom support for non-verbal students who rely on these devices. 00:35:18.000 --> 00:35:34.000 What is the department's plan to ensure our students receive the full services mandated on their IEPs, which includes reliable speech therapy scheduling, timely device access and repair, and appropriate one-on-one instructional support where needed. 00:35:34.000 --> 00:35:55.000 While also preventing students from being pushed towards specialized placements due to service gaps. Additionally, what data does the department collect on service delivery gaps and what accountability measures are in place to address these issues in real time and to ensure transparency for families. 00:35:55.000 --> 00:36:07.000 Alright, that is a very, thorough and great question, right? And so 1st we have to Be clear, you know, and it's department the department's position and departments. 00:36:07.000 --> 00:36:20.000 Value and the apartment's belief that every child has the right to receive the services and support outlined in their IEP and not only receive the supports but on time and fully consistent. 00:36:20.000 --> 00:36:40.000 You know At NBC Public Schools, we are committed to transparency, shared accountability and strong partnership with parents because the best students are best served when students are best served when schools and families are best served when schools and families work together as true partners and families work together as true partners. 00:36:40.000 --> 00:36:45.000 We've seen some significant improvement in how we do this service delivery over the last 2 partners. We've seen some significant improvement in how we do this service delivery over the last 2 partners. 00:36:45.000 --> 00:36:48.000 We've seen some significant improvement in how we do this service delivery over the last, you know, we've seen some significant improvement in how we do this service delivery over the last, you know, 5 years. 00:36:48.000 --> 00:36:59.000 You know, this, we, and as a city, we report to the city council on our reports and we've seen significant increase. 00:36:59.000 --> 00:37:07.000 For example, in district 28 today over 92.5% of students are fully receiving their mindated services and over 6% of students are receiving their related services. 00:37:07.000 --> 00:37:23.000 Now here's the thing with that. 4% or if I'm part of the you know, 7.5%. 00:37:23.000 --> 00:37:38.000 It might as well be a hundred, it might as well be a hundred percent people not receiving it. And so we do have to do continue to do a better job of trying to make sure that we meet all of, our IPIP services. 00:37:38.000 --> 00:37:55.000 While the majority of students are fully are receiving full services, there are gaps and we we're going to continue to work on strengthening those gaps in the service to Libya and I know I have chief and the course who is going to talk a little bit more. 00:37:55.000 --> 00:38:00.000 Thank you so much, Chancellor Samuel. Thank you for the great question, President Meserton and you live this. 00:38:00.000 --> 00:38:03.000 We all live this every day. If you're the one student or the 100 students who don't have what they need, that's unacceptable. 00:38:03.000 --> 00:38:08.000 And I just appreciate Chancellor Samuel's reaffirming that. What are we doing and how do families access it? 00:38:08.000 --> 00:38:21.000 We were able to hire 6 additional related service providers in just 28 we need to continue that so we have more people providing service. 00:38:21.000 --> 00:38:31.000 We also are trying to use the people we have more broadly. So we're looking at 6 period. 00:38:31.000 --> 00:38:46.000 Can provide additional related service sessions. And we have just opened up through partnership with the UFT. 9th session, OTPT, so that those providers are able to work an additional period, get paid additional dollars who are already in our schools and know our students. 00:38:46.000 --> 00:39:00.000 Huge appreciation to the Chancellor for supporting funding for that important initiative. Talk about AT for just a minute because we need families to know how to get those evaluations and get their devices in a timely manner. 00:39:00.000 --> 00:39:09.000 One thing I don't think folks know as much is that we do offer those at weekend Academy. There's a weekend academy site here at Q. 00:39:09.000 --> 00:39:12.000 40, where we can actually have AT evaluations happen each Saturday. So that's something that we can do right here in the district. 00:39:12.000 --> 00:39:16.000 And we'll be also offering ATF valuations during summer at ESY sites in addition to what's offered at the school. 00:39:16.000 --> 00:39:30.000 We have more work to do and grateful to be in partnership with you just spread the word about what's available. 00:39:30.000 --> 00:39:34.000 Thank you. 00:39:34.000 --> 00:39:41.000 Next question. Our next question is from councilmember Chantelle Chambers. 00:39:41.000 --> 00:40:02.000 Good evening, everyone. Good evening, Chancellor. Will the DOE formalize a clear, transparent, and enforceable sibling priority policy, including during admissions and summarizing placements to reduce family hardship, keep siblings together where space permits, and how. 00:40:02.000 --> 00:40:13.000 Our gifted and talented programs audited to ensure equity, diversity, and access for students of all abilities. 00:40:13.000 --> 00:40:22.000 All right, so currently we do have a sibling priorities in place. Look, I think it's important to us. 00:40:22.000 --> 00:40:32.000 Oh, sorry. I think it's important to us that our families attend school certainly in elementary school. 00:40:32.000 --> 00:40:34.000 Together as much as possible and we have policies in place to do that as including for summer rising as well. 00:40:34.000 --> 00:40:56.000 You know, and so we will continue to make sure that. Those priorities exist. You know, you ask a very interesting question about, gifted and talented programs, which I think is something that we. 00:40:56.000 --> 00:41:15.000 Are going to be looking at over the next couple of months because Currently in our gifted and talented programs, we do see that there are a lot of siblings in in in in given anti to schools in the past when there was a test. 00:41:15.000 --> 00:41:39.000 You would have a certain. Number that you would have to get to and then our siblings would have could have like a a lower number, know what's happened is because we do not have an admissions criteria for our citywide GNT schools that the criteria essentially is that you get recommended by your. 00:41:39.000 --> 00:42:05.000 Preschool or your parent, it's based on our rubric. We've seen significant increases in the number of students who have an economic need I think it's been so that that's gone up by 42% but we've also seen a significant increase in the number of siblings that are in IGNT schools and and and quite frankly some families question the fairness of 00:42:05.000 --> 00:42:13.000 that right and so we have to then and that happens because we have us a big priority as in place. 00:42:13.000 --> 00:42:23.000 And so. We need to over the next couple of months will be launching, sessions where we will be talking about, some of the the strengths and concerns are on the current model of our G and T program. 00:42:23.000 --> 00:42:36.000 So we will continue to talk about that. Thank you. All right. Before we go to the next one, I just want to update everybody. 00:42:36.000 --> 00:42:43.000 At home we have right now over 250 watchers. So thank you families for district 28 showing up. 00:42:43.000 --> 00:42:51.000 I see you. It's going to keep growing. Let's get these questions. All right, our next question is from. 00:42:51.000 --> 00:42:56.000 Annie Coke. 00:42:56.000 --> 00:43:05.000 Hello Chancellor Samuel, can you hear me? It is a pleasure and honor to share the stage here tonight with my colleagues now all. 00:43:05.000 --> 00:43:14.000 Like to know, like to let you know that I was a former teaching fellow. Cohort 3, 2,002. 00:43:14.000 --> 00:43:25.000 Oh my, I dated myself. So I'm asking the next question from the perspective. Parent and former teacher in public school. 00:43:25.000 --> 00:43:34.000 Dick Strick, 28 is one of the most overcrowded districts in New York City. And new developments are going up all over the district. 00:43:34.000 --> 00:43:44.000 We urgently need more school seats. How will you ensure? The class size law is implemented on time and in a thoughtful and effective way. 00:43:44.000 --> 00:43:52.000 Yeah. That's a big one. Look, I think 00:43:52.000 --> 00:44:05.000 Specifically and particularly for elementary school. I am a proponent of the class size law. We have seen over the last number of years. 00:44:05.000 --> 00:44:19.000 We did not do the necessary work. To actually get to a point where we could more sustainably meet the, the needs of the law, right? 00:44:19.000 --> 00:44:34.000 And so we are at a point where in September this coming September, we should be at 80% and that is going to be at Almost it's gonna be extremely difficult to do. 00:44:34.000 --> 00:44:43.000 Without exceptions and even with exceptions. It's going to be very difficult to do. And so let's you know, talk a little bit about what's required and what's needed. 00:44:43.000 --> 00:44:55.000 Right. When the 1st thing is required, is space. Right, you're gonna have to have space and it sounds like. 00:44:55.000 --> 00:45:00.000 You know, that's that's that's a premium. Space is a premium in district 28. 00:45:00.000 --> 00:45:08.000 Right. And so you get the space and then you're going to need the extra teachers. Right? 00:45:08.000 --> 00:45:15.000 We've done an incredible, investment in teachers over the last year. I believe last year we hired something close to 7. 00:45:15.000 --> 00:45:40.000 I have been more than 7,000 teachers across the city. This year we asked for, to state for 600 million dollars just to fund the teachers that it's going to be required to get to the get to as close as possible as we can to 70% to 80%. 00:45:40.000 --> 00:45:47.000 No, the, no. And so now we have a little bit of an, an issue, right? 00:45:47.000 --> 00:45:54.000 So, so elementary school teachers, I think we have enough teachers either through fellows, programmer and others. 00:45:54.000 --> 00:46:03.000 We already have a shortage of. You know, special education teachers are shortage of multilingual learners and shortage of math features. 00:46:03.000 --> 00:46:11.000 So it's particularly difficult. To get to the teacher recruitment that you need because we don't necessarily have for middle and high school because we don't necessarily have as many teachers in those pipelines. 00:46:11.000 --> 00:46:29.000 It's also difficult because we have around the city a host of huge high schools that would require significant capital investment to get to the class size level. 00:46:29.000 --> 00:46:37.000 When you when you're speaking specifically of district 28, I want to do that. My goals are to do 2 things. 00:46:37.000 --> 00:47:03.000 Make sure that we are exploring all of the space that we currently have because sometimes you have. You know you might have over a subscribed at moment a co-located schools in one situation you might have space in another building and so we ought to look at make sure that we're utilizing all of the space that we currently have well and that's where we're gonna work with your superintendent. 00:47:03.000 --> 00:47:27.000 We're gonna work with folks to make sure we're optimizing that and then the the next thing we're we're gonna have to do is Where there is a necessary and will do necessarily maybe some you know mind some some utilization proposals based on that but then we are gonna have to think about where the capital investment needs exist and I think you're saying there a lot of buildings going up. 00:47:27.000 --> 00:47:44.000 One of the things that we've worked on with developers is to ensure that oftentimes when they're new building there is also a school attached to that. 00:47:44.000 --> 00:47:50.000 The new building so we have to think about that work that and what that looks like in District 28. 00:47:50.000 --> 00:48:05.000 And then we will need the SEA investment to ensure that where we cannot where we need extra space that we have to find and work with your community boards too, right? 00:48:05.000 --> 00:48:26.000 Because you know at the site of school you need community board support there are times that we find sites and community boards might say the last thing that we want is a high school or we're gonna need we're gonna need support from from our families and so on to help us when the time comes to really speak to community boys members. 00:48:26.000 --> 00:48:52.000 But overall, I think we are going to, we're in the middle right now of, some heavy negotiations with, with the SCA, with our elected officials to make sure that we can, where the necessary adjustments need to be made to the law where the necessary flexibility is need to be made that we can get them but also that we can develop a really strong capital plan that would address the seat issue. 00:48:52.000 --> 00:48:58.000 So thank you. I know that was a long answer, but it's a tough question. That was a good answer. 00:48:58.000 --> 00:49:12.000 I don't know what you guys. There are no easy answers. Bringing up community boards, I just want to acknowledge our past community board member Vanessa Spartz who is now the engagement coordinator for New York City Councilman Ty Hankerson. 00:49:12.000 --> 00:49:16.000 Thank you. Vanessa Sparks. 00:49:16.000 --> 00:49:23.000 Our next question will be coming from our first.st Second vice president, Jennifer Silvers. 00:49:23.000 --> 00:49:29.000 I'm just gonna stand up because I'm all the way down here. Good evening, everyone here in person. 00:49:29.000 --> 00:49:42.000 Good evening, everyone listening online and good evening Chancellor Samuels. Good evening. What policies and protocols are currently in place across District 28? 00:49:42.000 --> 00:49:53.000 To protect black, brown, immigrant, and special needs students from discrimination. Racism, xenophobia, and bias. 00:49:53.000 --> 00:50:03.000 And how are these protections implemented in schools? Additionally, what anti bias and culturally responsive training do staff receive? 00:50:03.000 --> 00:50:19.000 How is that information communicated to families? And how our bias related incidents reported investigated, tracked, and publicly shared in aggregate to ensure transparency and accountability. 00:50:19.000 --> 00:50:29.000 Yeah, wow. Thank you for that question. That is, not only a great question, but something that is always you know, top of mind for me. 00:50:29.000 --> 00:50:46.000 I think that when we think about what it means to live in a diversity. A lot of these things that you are talking about often come up and for me You know, while we've seen is. 00:50:46.000 --> 00:50:59.000 Current events leading to a lot of bias in our schools and you know this is not something new when I was a teacher when I became a teacher in 2,003. 00:50:59.000 --> 00:51:04.000 The the the current event was 9 11 and like a lot of the bias pieces were around Islamophobia. 00:51:04.000 --> 00:51:17.000 And then we came through years where we had, you know, LGBTQ bias. 00:51:17.000 --> 00:51:30.000 We went through COVID, we had anti-Asian bias. And, most recently we had obviously, October 7th that led to a lot of anti-Semitism and all during that. 00:51:30.000 --> 00:51:46.000 Time we have seen a lot of you know anti-black racism in school as well. And so When I think about the work that we can do, I think about these things as 1st things that we should be able to. 00:51:46.000 --> 00:51:54.000 Create schools and build the capacity for schools to address these issues. And now wait for the event to happen that's going to be the catalyst to that. 00:51:54.000 --> 00:52:04.000 So we can do things every single day. And the 1st thing and one of the most important things that we're doing is with our curriculum. 00:52:04.000 --> 00:52:21.000 We have our Black Studies curriculum and our hidden voices work that goes across 9 identities, including the global African diaspora, Jewish heritage, Muslim work, as well as many more. 00:52:21.000 --> 00:52:36.000 And so with disabilities were just so much there that is rich so much there that is rich so we've never had more resources around this, so much there that is rich. 00:52:36.000 --> 00:52:45.000 So we've never had more resources around this, but something that we've never had more resources around this, but something that we ought to be doing is one thing to have the resources around this, but something that we ought to be doing is it's 1 thing to have the resources, but we need to do a better job, quite frankly, to have the resources, but we need to do a better job, quite frankly, of ensuring 00:52:45.000 --> 00:52:53.000 that we need to do a better job, quite frankly, of ensuring that we are working with our teachers, quite frankly, of ensuring that we are working with our teachers to make sure that we are working with our teachers to make sure that they understand that we are working with our teachers to make sure that they understand that we are working with our teachers to make sure that they understand the teachers to make sure that they understand the, not just the importance, but the optimal 00:52:53.000 --> 00:53:12.000 times to make sure that they understand the, not just the importance, but the optimal times to integrate this work within your within your your your your your daily routine as as instructionally and then we need to build our teachers capacity for themselves to be able to see things happening in a classroom and respond to those things in ways that are productive. 00:53:12.000 --> 00:53:27.000 I'll give you an example. I was in a classroom. When I was superintendent and these 2 students were having a conversation about the 1st time and because we do civics for all in our schools and that's something that was happening in that classroom. 00:53:27.000 --> 00:53:40.000 And one child said, you know, you should be able to say whatever you want. Just as long as you don't hurt my feelings. 00:53:40.000 --> 00:53:55.000 The other kid says. For what if what I'm saying is true? And, and like I could see the teacher getting nervous because she wasn't sure how to handle this situation. 00:53:55.000 --> 00:54:14.000 What we ought to be doing is ensuring that we're building the capacity of our teachers. So any those moments on a daily basis, they can help our young people to connect across difference, because we are preparing our young people to be in a super polarized society. 00:54:14.000 --> 00:54:24.000 And if they don't understand and if they don't have the necessary skills in empathy, then they won't be able to engage in that work. 00:54:24.000 --> 00:54:33.000 So I think, you know, that this is quite frankly something we have a plan to do better on because we do need to, it's not enough to create the resources. 00:54:33.000 --> 00:54:40.000 We have to create the pathway to make sure that those resources are being used and used consistently with young people and teachers. 00:54:40.000 --> 00:54:48.000 And Mark, around percent again, are chief of safety and prevention, Mark. Yep, thank you. Thank you very much, Chancellor. 00:54:48.000 --> 00:54:54.000 And I'll be super brief. Just, just a, a point of information to share. 00:54:54.000 --> 00:54:58.000 In district 28 as it relates to a point of information to share in district 28 as it relates to bullying. 00:54:58.000 --> 00:55:10.000 In district 28 as it relates to bullion complaints as it relates to bullion complaints overall you guys are down 17% as it relates to violations when it comes to bullying discrimination, intimidation or harassment, you're down 37% as it relates to those violations. 00:55:10.000 --> 00:55:24.000 So the work is in fact being done. That thank you for the person. Platform. So, so I share that with you to say that the work is being done and while the Chancellor shared with you that we can always do more. 00:55:24.000 --> 00:55:30.000 I want to take a victory lap around the work that is in fact happening. That's why I shared that with you today. 00:55:30.000 --> 00:55:37.000 Every one of our schools has respect for all liaison. Who's got one job and that one job is to take the concerns of young people as well as educate young people that schools should be free. 00:55:37.000 --> 00:55:50.000 Of bullying, harassment, and intimidation. And anytime there's a case of that happening in our school. 00:55:50.000 --> 00:56:02.000 Outside of the signage that should be should live all through the school that liaison is trained andually to make sure that they are supporting young people in those aforementioned areas. 00:56:02.000 --> 00:56:07.000 It is super important to understand that outside of our respect for liaison. Every adult in the building is responsible for the safety of our young people. 00:56:07.000 --> 00:56:16.000 And when we create the environment that the Chancellor just spoke about, every young person will be. 00:56:16.000 --> 00:56:22.000 Confident and they will be secured and the fact that I can go and tell anybody that I'm not feeling comfortable today and you are going to in fact do something. 00:56:22.000 --> 00:56:46.000 Outside of the information that I just shared with you about the reductions in this area. You guys are seeing a 19% decree, you guys are seeing a 19% decrease in superintendent You are seeing a 7% decrease in principles and a 9% overall in suspensions. 00:56:46.000 --> 00:56:57.000 That means that the work is happening here. And as it relates to incidents overall, you're seeing a 24% decrease in the most egregious incidents in schools in this district. 00:56:57.000 --> 00:57:07.000 So that is in fact a victory lap for you, right? We don't get to celebrate the work and most people say we still have a long way to go. 00:57:07.000 --> 00:57:16.000 But we are certainly not where we were. So thank you very much for that question. 00:57:16.000 --> 00:57:23.000 Thank you. Next, Councilmember Bakita. 00:57:23.000 --> 00:57:42.000 Does it come up? Okay, good evening all. Thank you, Chancellor. Okay, well the district commit to structured reoccurring town halls with published follow-up action steps. 00:57:42.000 --> 00:57:55.000 Don't need to look at a thing. No, no, you're good. If I needed that with you right here, no, 1st of all, thank you for the question and in general, I think. 00:57:55.000 --> 00:57:59.000 Tone halls are a great way for communities to come together, but it really they really do need to be effective. 00:57:59.000 --> 00:58:12.000 And effective. Conversation back and forth and I know the superintendent is going to respond to that that question. 00:58:12.000 --> 00:58:27.000 Right, so thanks for that question. I just wanted to say. Special welcome to my team members or with us tonight and to the principals who remains so Thank you for that. 00:58:27.000 --> 00:58:36.000 Okay, so the district is already in structured recurring town halls to ongoing monthly meetings. At the CC. 00:58:36.000 --> 00:58:47.000 Every CC I gave my comprehensive monthly report. That, address questions alongside members of my leadership team and of course families and also the principals. 00:58:47.000 --> 00:58:56.000 To keep the community well informed about district initiatives and parities. And these tunnels function has a central platform for 2 way communication. 00:58:56.000 --> 00:59:01.000 Is not that I just speak to, but there's also a moment where we put speak and everybody under any member of the community is able to speak on just about every topic. 00:59:01.000 --> 00:59:17.000 And I make sure I follow up especially inviting parents into my office. Going to the schools, visiting them frequently to make myself verb visible. 00:59:17.000 --> 00:59:25.000 So of course there's always room for improvement but at least that is a catalyst that to which I used to connect with families and parents. 00:59:25.000 --> 00:59:36.000 So to have this open dialogue at our monthly meetings. Thank you. 00:59:36.000 --> 00:59:43.000 Thank you, Superintendent, Dr. Blake. Our next council member, Kenya, the next question. Sure. 00:59:43.000 --> 00:59:46.000 Good afternoon. Hello again, everyone. As mentioned, my name is Kenya Townsend. Welcome. 00:59:46.000 --> 00:59:48.000 Thanks so much for coming. Congratulations to you and your new cabinet. I'm so happy that they're supporting you in your conversations throughout the city. 00:59:48.000 --> 01:00:02.000 I really, well, people really wanted to know just the clarity on the current administration's position on major control of the public school system. 01:00:02.000 --> 01:00:21.000 Particularly in light of prior statements suggesting that the mayor would relinquish control and commit to working towards a governance structure that increases the transparency, shared decision-making, and meaningful empowerment for schools and families. 01:00:21.000 --> 01:00:29.000 Alright, so. This is this is a fabulous question and you know Maybe in this room. 01:00:29.000 --> 01:00:59.000 I don't know, but. I do have to take. Some credits or blame wherever you are in in in deliberating with the mayor and talking about the fact that if The mayor wants to do the things that he said that he wants to do and if we have a since we have such a bold vision especially for universal childcare we have a bold vision for what we want to see happen in schools. 01:01:01.000 --> 01:01:31.000 It is very difficult to do that when you have system in flux and possibly a system with 32 different districts doing different things and so I certainly throughout my conversations with the mayor talked about the importance of having mayoral accountability and I'm gonna call it, Mural accountability because if we say we want to have expansion of 2 K to get to so many of our parents who are spending so much on childcare. 01:01:40.000 --> 01:01:52.000 If at the end of. Is this 4 years you didn't see movement on that we want to be able to say This is what you said, why didn't you do it? 01:01:52.000 --> 01:02:10.000 Right? And if, and you're not going to be able to say that if Yeah, to one person if we have several different districts doing the same thing where a district could say, yeah, we don't want that to 2 KC, so we don't, we don't want those things, right? 01:02:10.000 --> 01:02:17.000 And so it's important to me. So really talk about moral control from the perspective of a practitioner, right? 01:02:17.000 --> 01:02:20.000 I was a New York City teaching fellows. Fellow when I came into the system I was giving 2 binders. 01:02:20.000 --> 01:02:33.000 There it was a red binder and a blue binder and that was what essentially I should have been teaching from. Yeah, yeah, people are here. 01:02:33.000 --> 01:02:39.000 They know what it is. I see the knots. They know it's true, right? And you know, no. 01:02:39.000 --> 01:03:00.000 When we think about what our teachers are coming in. To schools and receiving as new teachers there is a baseline there is a high quality curriculum across every school across every district and we are we are confident that our young people are receiving greed, level of content. 01:03:00.000 --> 01:03:13.000 And then we are also confident that they know no research. You cannot do that. Without mayor or accountability and moral control. 01:03:13.000 --> 01:03:20.000 We can't have 32 districts and high schools doing their own thing. That's my position. 01:03:20.000 --> 01:03:34.000 That's now the mayor's position. And we're gonna rock out that way and so we have you know we've seen the governors we have in the governor's budget she did put in male control for an extension of 4 years. 01:03:34.000 --> 01:03:43.000 We're hoping that the rest of the legislative bodies agree with her. But we are strongly in support of male responsibility. 01:03:43.000 --> 01:03:55.000 And now that is not divorced. From having true parental boys and true family input and again I am a I'm a parent myself. 01:03:55.000 --> 01:04:09.000 There is a way to get to both. We need to and we are listening to advocates of ways they want to kind of make some shifts, some flexibility, the ones that we can do on our own, we will try to do our on our own. 01:04:09.000 --> 01:04:17.000 We cannot do this work without real input and parents being a part of the decision making process. But when it comes to the, when it comes to the bucks gotta stop with somebody, right? 01:04:17.000 --> 01:04:37.000 And, and so we are, we are, and you might not always agree, right? We might not always agree, but what you be, but, but, but I believe under my chancellorship, no one should be able to say is that I didn't thoughtfully engage. 01:04:37.000 --> 01:04:48.000 I didn't listen to communities. I didn't make some adjustments to the plans that I have even if I didn't agree with everything that everyone said. 01:04:48.000 --> 01:04:56.000 Thank you. Thank you. And quick update online. We have 478 members. 01:04:56.000 --> 01:05:05.000 Exactly. We're doing something right. Always and I want to just take this time in a little quick moment to acknowledge our principals. 01:05:05.000 --> 01:05:16.000 I know Dr. Superintendent Dr. Blake acknowledged you but if you could please stand because you guys are amazing and get a round of applause as Thank you. 01:05:16.000 --> 01:05:23.000 It's you guys. Thank you. 01:05:23.000 --> 01:05:30.000 That that also meant if you're a high school principal too like any high school principals in here. 01:05:30.000 --> 01:05:31.000 I see one and he's just being modest like you, you just, step thank you Hearts High School. 01:05:31.000 --> 01:05:39.000 Thank you. I have to, I have to show out principal. I'm in district 23. 01:05:39.000 --> 01:05:45.000 I'm Maria Kurani. Like I didn't realize you were here man like congratulations. 01:05:45.000 --> 01:05:50.000 That's great. Yeah, the great 28 is getting a lot of great people. So great. 01:05:50.000 --> 01:06:01.000 No, no, thank you. Yeah, You can't measure 6 foot. What? Alright, I also want to acknowledge our pet members who represent us all over the city. 01:06:01.000 --> 01:06:16.000 Adrian Alicia and Surely, uben. Thank you, thank you. So sometimes I feel like those 2 are like following me around everywhere I go, but it's it's always good to see you Always. 01:06:16.000 --> 01:06:17.000 Thank you. And face you guys do a lot. I don't know everyone's name, so I'm just gonna don't take it personal. 01:06:17.000 --> 01:06:28.000 Anne Marie, you've been holding us down. To be, to didn't even own this down. 01:06:28.000 --> 01:06:29.000 Katie, you've been holding us down. Flavia, we had a little connection, Andy. 01:06:29.000 --> 01:06:36.000 So you guys are phenomenal. Give him a ran. I'm not, don't take it anyway if I didn't say your name. You all are good. 01:06:36.000 --> 01:06:45.000 But those ones are good. Just and we got one more shot out our liaison to Mika. 01:06:45.000 --> 01:06:49.000 She's holding it down with Rebecca. Thank you. Thank you. What's up? 01:06:49.000 --> 01:07:00.000 Yeah, just. Just 1, 1 final dollar for me, you know, Dr. Blake is here, but we also have Superintendent Joseph Josephine, Vaness, she's also here from a high school. 01:07:00.000 --> 01:07:11.000 That's right. Yes, I was getting to that. I was getting to that. That, look, that is not just, you know, Dr. 01:07:11.000 --> 01:07:18.000 Josephine, Superintendent Vaness, that is the Queen of the South. Media. She's everywhere. 01:07:18.000 --> 01:07:27.000 Thank you. So much. Alright, as we get to our last question. Yes. 01:07:27.000 --> 01:07:34.000 Time. You want to stay late? I'm already over, but you know, it's a great 28. 01:07:34.000 --> 01:07:42.000 I kinda cut you all shot. One more is fine. So as the president and D. 75 representative this question holds there to me. 01:07:42.000 --> 01:07:54.000 With the growing number of districts. 75 co-locations across our schools. Many families and students are sharing concerns about ongoing misunderstandings and ableless attitudes towards D. 01:07:54.000 --> 01:08:01.000 75 programs and students. While special education is often discussed broadly, D. 75 represents a very different reality for many families. 01:08:01.000 --> 01:08:26.000 What steps will the deal we take to ensure that D. 75 students are fully within our school communities while also expanding the tools, supports, and pathways that help them achieve greater independence, including clearer pathways to the plumbers, to diplomas, and meaningful post-secondary outcomes. 01:08:26.000 --> 01:08:41.000 Oh, this is this is something that's incredibly, important to me. I think that as we, and as I work with so many superintendents across the city and so many principals. 01:08:41.000 --> 01:08:51.000 Principles, I just need to say, you know, rest assured, the vast majority of our schools and principals. 01:08:51.000 --> 01:08:58.000 Are really incredibly supportive of inclusive programs. We're within those schools making sure that they're doing the necessary programming work. 01:08:58.000 --> 01:09:25.000 Making sure that they're working with their district. 75 counterparts to have a collaborative environment and make sure that we we are getting a high quality experience for our, we are getting a high quality experience for our young people in district, we are getting a high quality experience for our, young people in district, high quality experience for our, our young people in district, 7,500 students for our young people in district, 7,500 students with disabilities. 01:09:25.000 --> 01:09:29.000 I will say that I will just, you know, put a fine point on this before I turn it over to Andy. 01:09:29.000 --> 01:09:45.000 You know, where there where we are falling short on that, that is going to be a huge. Priority of mine, we will move with urgency to make sure that our adults are creating spaces that are incredibly inviting and in that us that are serving every single student. 01:09:45.000 --> 01:10:01.000 We, there is no place for discrimination. Against, anyone and particularly not our students with disabilities. 01:10:01.000 --> 01:10:13.000 So we are going to continue to work on that. Ever it raises its heads. And I just wanted to kind of turn it over to Andy to add anything you wanted to have. 01:10:13.000 --> 01:10:19.000 President Mezzatan, thank you so much for this question. Chancellor, thank you for those strong words. 01:10:19.000 --> 01:10:29.000 I've been in many of these meetings with you, President Meserton, and I'm grateful as always for your leadership and for asking this important question. 01:10:29.000 --> 01:10:38.000 Students recommended for District 75. Live in every community. And every neighborhood in New York City. 01:10:38.000 --> 01:10:43.000 We are neighbors. We are in community with each other. 01:10:43.000 --> 01:10:56.000 One of the reasons we support so greatly co-location. For students in District 75. Is it ableism? 01:10:56.000 --> 01:11:11.000 And prejudice break down. When we are literally in community. With each other. It's 1 of the reasons I'm so grateful for Chancellor Samuels and the priority of true integration. 01:11:11.000 --> 01:11:21.000 Which much inclusiveness with disabilities along with many other identities in this great city. 01:11:21.000 --> 01:11:22.000 We have more work to do. I'm grateful for Chancellor Samuels and your bold words at the CEC to. 01:11:22.000 --> 01:11:45.000 Against, A, this language that they're in our communities. And I'm grateful for the work of space planning and particularly under the leadership of Chris Mangerro and the building council and co-location handbook about how we share space better. 01:11:45.000 --> 01:11:51.000 For all students and all of their needs. 01:11:51.000 --> 01:12:00.000 The last thing I want to bring up is the importance of post secondary opportunities in graduation. And I'm so glad you raised that. 01:12:00.000 --> 01:12:08.000 Many of our parents are students with disabilities, especially those with more significant support needs, are left with the question. 01:12:08.000 --> 01:12:24.000 What happens? After age 22. What happens when my student leaves the school system? And we're not doing our job unless we prepare students for a thriving. 01:12:24.000 --> 01:12:34.000 Fulfilling life. After age 22. Part of that work is about transition opportunities, internships, and other meaningful career opportunities. 01:12:34.000 --> 01:12:51.000 And part of that work that we'll need all of you for is the new portrait of a graduate coming out from New York State, redefining what it means to be a graduate and New York City and including students with all abilities and disabilities. 01:12:51.000 --> 01:12:58.000 Students in District 75. Thank you for the question. Thank you for your leadership. Thank you, Chancellor. 01:12:58.000 --> 01:13:06.000 Really? Alright, the sneaking a few more shout-outs. We have another CEC president from CC. 01:13:06.000 --> 01:13:12.000 26, I see you. Thank you for showing up. I'll be at your head 10 hold as well. 01:13:12.000 --> 01:13:21.000 We got each other. Also, Katherine Zapata, we share her. So I know the Chancellor mentioned her, but she's also a direct relationship with our district. 01:13:21.000 --> 01:13:27.000 And just to let you guys know, we've gotten the most funding from the borough president than any other district. 01:13:27.000 --> 01:13:31.000 So we really appreciate that. 01:13:31.000 --> 01:13:36.000 28 gets the money. 01:13:36.000 --> 01:13:48.000 Yeah. And I know, Doctor, Superintendent Blake mentioned his, his crew, but Vic, Sonia, and Raj, thank you, Dr. 01:13:48.000 --> 01:13:54.000 Benoit, for all that you do behind the scenes. We appreciate you guys. 01:13:54.000 --> 01:14:04.000 And thank you everyone online. 700 guys, we hit the 700 mark. Like we are, man, we going viral. 01:14:04.000 --> 01:14:10.000 This is beautiful. Thank you, everyone online, the principals, the teachers who stayed here after work. 01:14:10.000 --> 01:14:16.000 Like we appreciate you guys. Paras, janitors, all staff. Thank you for showing up. 01:14:16.000 --> 01:14:25.000 Today we got to ask questions. We took your concerns and priorities and we asked the Chancellor and he so eloquently answered our questions. 01:14:25.000 --> 01:14:30.000 Each of them won't just give him another round of applause. Thank you for coming through. 01:14:30.000 --> 01:14:37.000 Like keep personally in some of those questions. He'd even delegated. He was like, I could send Mr. D, but now I'm gonna do this myself. 01:14:37.000 --> 01:14:42.000 I appreciate that. And also, you know, CEC. CEC council members, I cannot do this presidency without you guys. 01:14:42.000 --> 01:15:03.000 You guys are amazing and I just want to give you guys your flowers while I'm up here. Cause you guys make this so amazing and we all Thank our administrative assistant, Darenda, for just always showing up for us and responding to all this stuff for us. 01:15:03.000 --> 01:15:08.000 So again. Other than that, we asked our questions, we showed up for our district the 28th of great. 01:15:08.000 --> 01:15:20.000 Please get home safe