Regionalization Sample Letter

Mr. David Frank  

Assistant Commissioner for Education Policy  

New York State Education Department  

89 Washington Avenue  

Albany, NY 12234

Dear Mr. Frank,

We, the [School Board Name], are writing to express our strong opposition to the emergency rule recently implemented by the New York State Education Department ("NYSED"). While we understand the need for continuous improvement in our education system, we do not believe that this issue rises to the level of an emergency. The absence of proper stakeholder engagement throughout the process is particularly concerning.

School boards, as locally elected representatives, have a direct responsibility to the communities they serve. It is imperative that we, along with other key stakeholders such as parents, teachers, and local leaders, are part of any discussion or decision that could significantly impact our districts. The emergency rule circumvents this crucial step of collaboration and transparency.

We urge the NYSED to immediately withdraw this emergency rule and refrain from renewing it in December. Instead, we ask that the department develop a comprehensive plan to engage all relevant stakeholders in a meaningful dialogue. Any future policy or regulation must reflect the voices of those who will be directly affected by its implementation.

Our schools are diverse, and the needs of each district are unique. A one-size-fits-all approach undermines the ability of local school boards to govern effectively in the best interests of their communities. We believe that NYSED should slow down and work with districts across the state to ensure that all perspectives are considered.

We trust that the department will prioritize thoughtful collaboration and transparency moving forward, ensuring that all school boards and stakeholders have a meaningful say in decisions that affect our students, schools, and communities.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter. We look forward to working with the department on this issue in a more inclusive and deliberate manner.

Sincerely,

[Board President’s Name]  

[School Board Name]  

[Contact Information]