In a recent curriculum meeting, community members expressed urgent concerns regarding the educational challenges faced by students at JFK, particularly in reading and math. Speakers highlighted that hundreds of children are struggling with literacy, and there is a growing frustration over the lack of immediate action to address these issues.
One speaker emphasized that the desire to tackle the reading crisis is stalled due to the ongoing search for a new curriculum director, with no clear timeline or sense of urgency in sight. This delay has raised alarms among parents and educators, who likened the situation to ignoring children in distress. They called for immediate intervention, citing the need for hiring more interventionists and providing adequate resources to meet the educational needs of students, especially those with learning disabilities.
Another speaker echoed these sentiments, noting the detrimental effects of oversized classrooms and a shortage of qualified teachers and support staff. The community has been criticized for not adequately assessing students' needs in a timely manner, which has left many unprepared for their current grade levels.
Both speakers urged local officials to prioritize funding for schools over other expenditures, arguing that the community has the potential to develop effective reading programs if given the necessary resources. They implored council members to take decisive action to support educators and students, emphasizing that the time for change is now, as the new school year has already begun.
The meeting concluded without any immediate resolutions, leaving many in the community anxious about the future of their children's education.