Regents nominee Surenstein stresses arts, teacher professional development and equity in testimony
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Summary
Ms. Surenstein, who has worked in K–12, state and federal education roles and leads Education Through Music, told committees she would prioritize high standards, teacher training and targeted formula changes for migrant, homeless and disabled students.
Ms. Surenstein presented her credentials and a detailed view of priorities she would pursue if selected for the Board of Regents.
She described a long career across local, state and federal education bodies, noted leadership of Education Through Music and cited an external evaluation she said shows participating students outperform peers in English language arts and mathematics. She argued arts integration improves attendance and engagement and can be part of equity strategies for underserved schools.
Surenstein listed three priorities: maintaining high standards across K–16, expanding teacher professional development (internships, mentorships, rigorous preparation) and improving accessibility for migrant, homeless and disabled students. On the foundation aid formula she said changes should be phased in and established through consultation with neighborhoods, families and local school boards.
On specialized high schools she said she attended one and supports selective schools as a way to nurture talent, but recommended admissions emphasize classroom performance and teacher recommendations rather than a single standardized test. On extended‑day or summer offerings she said programs should be optional and could leverage adjunct instructors and after‑school models to expand opportunity without making them mandatory.
Committee members thanked Surenstein for her testimony; no committee vote or appointment occurred during the hearing.