City Hall and the Department of Education blindsided parents again Monday, this time with an announcement that November would be the only time they can opt their kids out of all-remote learning for the rest of the school year.
For months, Chancellor Richard Carranza told parents they’d be able to make quarterly decisions on all-remote vs. “blended” learning. No more — and his laughable justification is that the loss of choice means “stability,” to the benefit of all.
The chancellor says schools need to finalize enrollment so they can allocate education resources and manpower. In others words, the unions made them do it. Or, at least, Carranza and his team just can’t handle the complications and still keep the United Federation of Teachers happy.
Many parents were waiting until after flu season and/or a possible second coronavirus wave before sending their children back into classrooms. Oops: They made the mistake of trusting Carranza’s word.
Now he says you can’t wait — which will surely push parents inclined to caution into keeping their kids home through June.
The chancellor also announced a new grading policy, with no penalties for absenteeism or finishing work late.
Basically, Carranza has opted for zero accountability for students, teachers or anyone else. Kids will just compile empty credits toward worthless diplomas.
Parents are supposed to be OK with a system that barely even pretends to teach.
