Religious school reprieve from NY education standards to be included in state budget
Briefly

New York lawmakers have postponed new regulations for nonpublic religious schools, primarily yeshivas, under pressure from Orthodox Jewish leaders. The changes will offer nonpublic schools additional time to comply with the substantial equivalency standard, which mandates a similar curriculum to public schools. This move contrasts with concerns from education officials about inadequate educational instruction in certain yeshivas. While most schools are compliant, some have resisted regulatory engagement, prompting state letters demanding closure. Lawmakers argue this delay will help schools without compromising education quality, while others warn it undermines essential protections for student learning.
"Watering down this issue does not serve our children well," said Betty Rosa, emphasizing the importance of regulations for preparing students for jobs and civic engagement.
Assembly Speaker Heastie stated, "It's not a loosening; it's just allowing yeshivas and schools to get themselves in compliance," emphasizing the need for schools to meet standards.
Read at Gothamist
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