One Newark Plan

Floor Speech

Mr. Speaker, I rise today because I am concerned about the Newark Public Schools' One Newark plan which picks winners and losers among schools and students.

Earlier this year, I sent a letter to the superintendent of Newark Public Schools, Cami Anderson. I am deeply troubled by its actions which ignore efforts to strengthen traditional public schools; further, I question whether the One Newark plan will truly help realize this vision for all students in the Newark public school system, especially children with disabilities.

Mr. Speaker, I sent this letter in February. More than 5 months later, I have yet to receive a single response. The people I represent are very upset over the lack of answers and the complete disregard for their concerns, and they have a right to be upset.

The opening of the schools in the Newark public school system this year was a debacle. There have been protests, and there will continue to be until the voices of the people are heard.

We are talking about the future of Newark, the future of our district, the future of our State, and the children that we love.

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