Community Education Council members meet with UFT

Denise Sullivan, the Bronx representative of the Citywide Council of High Schools, spoke for many when calling for a substantial common curriculum at a meeting between parent activists and UFT leaders on Dec. 5 at the union’s Manhattan headquarters.

“The state needs to provide a strong, well-designed curriculum that matches up with the common core standards,” Sullivan said.

UFT President Michael Mulgrew agreed.

“We need meaningful curriculum for every subject and for every level,” Mulgrew said, adding that the Department of Education’s mindset about teaching to the test while sacrificing a holistic education is leaving students unprepared for college.

The 40 activists included Community Education Council presidents and members of the Parent Association Presidents Council.

In addition to the call for a citywide curriculum, the agenda included the need for state tax reform to avert another year of school budget cuts. It also included the need for a teacher evaluation system that is based upon continually supporting teachers’ growth and development.

A great deal of excitement was generated when Mulgrew talked about a high-poverty school district in Cincinnati, Ohio, which had upped its graduation rate exponentially by transforming its schools into learning centers with wraparound services for students and the community, with decisions made by a committee of parents, community members, teachers and administrators.

Mulgrew outlined the successful model and spoke about how it could be done in New York City.

“Count me in,” called out one parent activist as others applauded and gave the thumbs-up.

Before adjourning, UFT Parent and Community Outreach Director Anthony Harmon thanked parents for their involvement in the union’s campaign for jobs and economic fairness.