During the recent Board of Education meeting held by the Hudson Valley Central School District (HPCSD) on December 12, 2024, discussions centered around the pressing need for educational reform, particularly regarding moral education and literacy rates among students.

One of the most striking comments came from a speaker who emphasized the decline in reading proficiency, citing a 37% literacy rate among students. This individual argued that the educational system has strayed from its foundational values, calling for a return to moral teachings alongside academics. They expressed concern that students are being distracted by what they termed "wokeness," which they believe detracts from essential learning. The speaker invoked historical figures like Thomas Jefferson, urging the board to restore a sense of morality and values in schools, including the acknowledgment of God and patriotism.

Another speaker, Piazza Rosie, shared her experiences running an at-risk youth program in Newburgh for 15 years. She highlighted the challenges faced by teachers who often take on parental roles due to the lack of family support among students. Rosie praised the recognition of young achievers in the community but expressed disappointment over the quality of literature available to students, suggesting that it does not meet the educational needs of today's youth.

The discussions at the meeting reflect a broader concern within the community about the direction of education and the importance of integrating moral values into the curriculum. As the board considers these perspectives, the implications for future educational policies and practices could be significant, potentially reshaping how students are taught and supported in their learning environments.

The meeting concluded with a call for further dialogue on these issues, indicating that the board may need to revisit its strategies to address the community's concerns about literacy and moral education.