New principal is PS 24 top priority

Posted

To the editor:

Your Oct. 13 editorial, “Let’s talk about schools,” invited readers to respond to a survey regarding their opinions on issues concerning P.S. 24. The editorial and follow-up analysis of the results and accompanying editorial, “Research before decisions,” October 28, raises important concerns over overcrowding at P.S. 24 and across the city. However, it fails to address the most important and most immediate issue: the process by which PS 24 can secure a permanent principal and full administrative leadership team, and the qualities our community would like to see in that leadership team. 

Instead, large parts of the survey focused on taking sides on the very “squabbles” and “legal disputes” criticized in your own editorial, which will not bring our community any closer to resolving the key issues at hand.

As a Parents Association, we are focused on the completion of the principal appointment process, which we understand will be restarted shortly. We understand from the Department of Education that this is a prerequisite to dealing with the issue of overcrowding. 

In our own survey of P.S. 24 parents conducted in May 2016, we found that 45 percent of parents prioritize a permanent principal who will be a strong communicator and a visionary leader for teachers, students and their families. Other high priorities include identifying a principal who will foster progressive educational practices, and who will be a strong mentor for teachers. 

We hope to see the principal appointment process restarted ASAP and look forward to its swift and proper resolution. We remain committed to partnering with teachers, staff and administrators to enrich the academic and social development of our children, strengthen our school community, and support a high quality, well-rounded education for our diverse community.

Laura Moukas and Diane Salanto, 
P.S. 24 Parents Association co-presidents

- - -

This letter was published in the Nov. 17, 2016 issue of the newspaper

PS 24, Laura Moukas, Diane Salanto

Comments