This morning, my partner, who teaches at a wonderfully diverse high school in New York City, is overseeing the SAT for a full classroom of eager juniors. At first glance, this may seem ordinary—after all, every high school student is expected to take the SAT, right? But here’s the twist: not every student actually has the chance to take it.
The SAT is a crucial exam for college admissions, yet it’s entirely voluntary and can pose a financial burden, with a fee of $45. Additionally, the exam is typically scheduled on Saturdays, which can be problematic for students who work or have parents who are unavailable to help them get to the testing location. Some students might not even be encouraged by their families to participate, particularly if their parents are new immigrants who might not understand the exam’s importance.
Recognizing these challenges, the New York City Department of Education has stepped up by making the SAT accessible on a school day, ensuring that most students can participate. Remarkably, they are covering the entire cost for all 70,000 high school juniors.
As a parent of two children in NYC schools and the spouse of a DOE employee, I have my share of grievances about the education system. However, initiatives like this one are a breath of fresh air, reminding me of the dedication of educators working tirelessly to support their students.
This initiative, announced back in 2015 by Chancellor Emily Rivers as part of the “College Access for All” campaign—a $3.5 million effort to ensure college is attainable for every student—has gained momentum. In addition to the SAT, students will receive free practice accounts on Khan Academy, opportunities to visit college campuses, assistance with college applications, and counseling on how to finance their education. Students facing financial barriers will also have access to fee waivers for college applications.
Chancellor Rivers knows firsthand the struggles faced by minority and lower-income students in the college admissions process. “I became the first in my family to attend college because a teacher guided me through the entire process,” she shared. “Opportunities should not be dictated by background or zip code.”
This initiative sends a powerful message: every student deserves a fair chance at higher education. Mayor Jake Thompson and Chancellor Rivers recently addressed students at Queens Technical High School, emphasizing that the narrative is shifting. “For too long, children were told they lacked the opportunity for college. We’re here to say that’s changing; every student can aspire to attend college,” Thompson stated.
While this is the inaugural year for NYC’s free SAT day, other districts have seen positive outcomes from similar initiatives. Studies indicate that offering the SAT during school hours increases attendance at four-year colleges, especially among first-generation college applicants.
Programs like these highlight the commitment of educators to ensure equitable access to quality education. Yes, our education system has its flaws, and we can—and should—advocate for improvements. However, it’s essential to recognize the dedicated educators who truly invest in their students’ futures. So, the next time you encounter a teacher, give them a heartfelt thank you!
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In summary, NYC’s initiative to provide free SAT testing for all high school juniors represents a significant step toward educational equity. This program not only alleviates financial burdens but also sends a clear message that every student, regardless of their background, deserves the opportunity to pursue higher education.
Keyphrase: NYC SAT funding for high school juniors
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