New York State
Alternative Education Association

I think the next five years will be an exciting time for education in New York State. Governor Spitzer’s Contract for Excellence and a presidential election approaching provide a window of opportunity to implement change. For the past 15 years, our schools have focused attention and resources on higher standards. Many schools faced tough decisions that favored test preparation over students’ social development. While schools have seen improvements on state tests, we have also seen (through VADIR reporting and SAVE Legislation) that there is much work to be done to provide safe schools. The educational pendulum that swung towards rigorous academics in the 1990’s is swinging back!

Since the 1970’s, there have been alternative schools for those students who did not fit a regular educational setting. Two different alternative models were created: schools of choice, provided alternative instruction & assessment; and second chance schools, served a population of at-risk students, (both school models serve students that struggle). Three common elements for both schools of choice and second chance schools are alternative setting, smaller classes, and relationship-driven curriculum. Today most school districts have alternative schools- including charter schools- and many high schools have alternative programs in their buildings. Alternative schools have pioneered innovative practices and it’s time to explore new innovations and share what we learn.

Over the last ten years, NYSAEA’s executive board has primarily consisted of BOCES administrators and teachers. As the president, I aim to increase NYSAEA’s scope to include charter schools, post-secondary institutions, and community based organizations. This diversity will help provide a vibrant dialog as we explore new ideas. The October NYSAEA Conference hosted by Ithaca College is already generating excitement around teacher training and school collaboration. So things are moving.

Ultimately all schools and educators are striving to help students succeed. I hope in the next few years NYSAEA can help advocate for new innovative practices including counting fifth year and GED graduates as successes, exploring different school schedules, and increasing student support through community-based alliances.

Andy Prinzing, President
New York State Alternative Education Association