During a recent school district meeting in New Rochelle, community members passionately voiced their concerns regarding the potential cancellation of the PAVE arts program and the introduction of charter schools in the area.

One student, a member of the PAVE program, expressed deep gratitude for the opportunities it has provided, stating that it has significantly changed the trajectory of their life. They emphasized the importance of the program in fostering a diverse community and highlighted the potential negative impact on students who may not have access to similar opportunities elsewhere. \"This is the perfect place for that,\" they said, urging the board to reconsider any plans to eliminate the program.

Marielle Johnson, a mother of two and an educator, echoed these sentiments, sharing her family's decision to move to New Rochelle for its diversity and educational opportunities. She voiced strong opposition to the introduction of charter schools, citing her experiences in New York City public schools where students were often left behind due to funding issues. Johnson called for a greater focus on early childhood education, advocating for a solid foundation for students to thrive.

The meeting concluded with a call for civic engagement, encouraging community members to continue participating in discussions about the future of education in New Rochelle. The school district remains committed to listening to the voices of its constituents as it navigates these critical issues.