Parents, students tell Community Board 2: Restore performing arts at 75 Morton and boost outreach

Parents, students and school leaders urged Manhattan Community Board 2Education Committee on Wednesday to help restore performing-arts programming at 75 Morton Middle School and to support outreach to boost enrollment.

"My name is Yodit Walker. I have 2 kids ... and I'm here to tell you why Morton is so special," said Yodit Walker, a parent, who described the school's "diversity, our rigorous academics, dedication to social emotional learning, opportunity for creative exploration" and what she called "amazing teachers." Walker highlighted continuity between daytime teachers and after-school supports that helped her daughter prepare a portfolio for LaGuardia High School.

The request came as part of a longer presentation from parents and students who described Morton as a zoned West Side middle school that offers general-education and accelerated classes, multiple ICT and special-education configurations including 12:1+1 classes, and services for students with 504 plans and English-language learners. "No matter what their academic level or learning level or needs are, every student in New York City has a place at 75 Morton," said Robin (last name not provided), a…