NEW YORK CITY CHARTER CENTER APPLAUDS GOV. HOCHUL & STATE LEGISLATURE FOR REVIVING ‘ZOMBIE’ CHARTERS IN BUDGET AGREEMENT

NEW YORK CITY CHARTER CENTER APPLAUDS GOV. HOCHUL & STATE LEGISLATURE FOR REVIVING ‘ZOMBIE’ CHARTERS IN BUDGET AGREEMENT

(NEW YORK, NY) – James Merriman, Chief Executive Officer of the New York City Charter School Center, released the following statement in response to reports that Governor Hochul and legislative leaders have reached a deal to revive 14 “zombie” charter schools in New York City in the New York State FY24 Budget:

“Today’s agreement allows 14 new public charter schools to open in NYC over the next few years.  That’s a win for families and their children.

“This victory would not be possible without Governor Hochul, who has been a stalwart supporter of public schools and a friend to students. She stood tough and fought hard to do the right thing. She understands that having both a strong and growing charter sector makes all of our public schools stronger and better able to meet the complex needs of our students and families. For years, leaders, including many of color, have been on hold to open innovative new schools in NYC communities – this deal will finally allow 14 of them to open their doors.”