Educators for Excellence-New York Reacts to Elimination of Option for Remote Learning this Fall

Educators for Excellence-New York (E4E-New York), a teacher-led organization, reacted to Mayor Bill de Blasio’s announcement that there will not be a remote option when schools reopen in the fall. 

“While teachers would have liked to receive the news first, I applaud Mayor de Blasio’s announcement that schools will return fully in person this fall,” said E4E-New York member Leton Hall, a sixth grade science teacher in the Bronx. “The advanced notice allows teachers to more effectively plan to welcome our students back to the classroom and for schools to implement strategies to address the learning gaps and mental health needs of our students. While I am extremely excited to be back in front of my students, I’m also looking forward to guidance on mask wearing and social distancing so that we can continue to provide students a safe learning environment.”  

“Remote learning was emergency triage—a short-term, unsustainable shift to manage an unparalleled situation. Bringing all students back into the classroom is the right decision to help our students to recover and thrive,” said Paula L. White, Executive Director of E4E-New York. “We also have work to do to convince parents that classrooms are safe for their children and teachers. I implore education officials to elevate the voices of teachers—who have already earned trust as leaders in their communities—in order to allay the concerns of parents and bring all of our students back in the fall.” 

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