From student-led protests to superintendent shakeups, here’s your exclusive, community-rooted roundup of what’s happening in schools across New York State this May. These stories reflect the resilience, activism, and challenges facing our students, educators, and families.
1. Ellis Prep Academy (Bronx, NYC)
Hundreds of students walked out on May 27 to protest the ICE detention of Dylan, a 20-year-old Venezuelan classmate seeking asylum. The protest, held in Union Square, was a powerful stand against federal immigration crackdowns and a call to protect immigrant youth in NYC schools. Chancellor Aviles-Ramos reaffirmed schools as safe spaces, while Mayor Adams offered a more cautious response.
2. Catskill Central School District (Greene County)
Superintendent Dan Wilson resigned after less than two years, taking a new role in Wappingers Central School District. His tenure was marked by controversy, including the suspension and reinstatement of staff amid community protests. Wilson’s departure adds to the district’s leadership instability.
3. Onteora Central School District (Ulster County)
Voters rejected a $70 million consolidation plan that would have closed Woodstock Elementary School. Despite declining enrollment, the community rallied to preserve the school, emphasizing its importance to the town’s identity. The district approved its budget but faces ongoing challenges with state funding and rural education sustainability.
4. Buffalo Public Schools (Erie County)
Allegations of mishandled student abuse cases have surfaced, with a detective accusing the district of failing to report incidents. Additionally, the lack of a formal agreement between the district and Buffalo Police for School Resource Officers raises concerns about student safety and oversight.
5. New York City Public Schools
In compliance with a state mandate to reduce class sizes, NYC is hiring 3,700 teachers and 100 assistant principals. While this aims to enhance education quality, principals express concerns about finding qualified candidates amid a competitive hiring landscape.
6. SUNY System
Chancellor John B. King Jr. warns that federal funding cuts jeopardize critical research, including projects on Alzheimer’s and cancer detection. Despite state support, the loss of federal grants threatens SUNY’s role in pioneering medical and technological advancements.
7. East Ramapo Central School District (Rockland County)
An audit revealed a $30 million surplus previously unaccounted for due to poor record-keeping. This discovery comes after years of budget deficits and failed proposals, highlighting the need for financial transparency and accountability in the district.
8. Massapequa School District (Nassau County)
Facing a state mandate to eliminate Native American mascots by June 2025, Massapequa is suing the Board of Regents, claiming a violation of First Amendment rights. The case underscores tensions between cultural sensitivity and tradition in school identities.
9. Greater Waterbury High Schools (Connecticut)
In regional sports news, Nonnewaug High School’s softball team remains unbeaten, advancing to the BL final. Cheshire’s Jenica Matos achieved her 600th career strikeout, leading her team to the SCC final. These accomplishments highlight the dedication and talent of student-athletes in the area.
10. New York State Education Department
The department released new numeracy briefs to enhance PreK-12 mathematics instruction, aiming to improve student outcomes statewide. This initiative reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen foundational skills in early education.
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