New York City Parents: Get Involved in Local and Citywide Education Policy
New York City parents: Do you want to get involved in local and citywide education policy? An opportunity is just around the corner.
What are Community and City Education Councils?
The city’s parent-led boards serve as largely advisory bodies, with the local councils holding direct power only to shape school zone boundaries. Still, CECs give parents an opportunity to weigh in on a variety of education issues at their monthly meetings, from academics to school budgets and more. The parent councils help determine education policies and priorities across local districts and the city, collaborating with district superintendents and issuing resolutions and other recommendations for the school system at large.
Who can serve on a CEC?
All candidates must be the parent or legal guardian of a New York City public school student, with some additional eligibility requirements (and exceptions) for specific councils. To serve on one of the 32 district CECs, you must have a child that is currently attending pre-K through eighth grade at a public school or program within that district. You can also apply for a reserved District 75 seat on the council if your child attends a District 75 program physically located within the district.
How can you run for a CEC seat?
Parents can apply through their New York City Schools Account when applications open on Jan. 13. Applications will remain open until Feb. 16. Candidates will campaign from February through April. There are more than 350 seats up for grabs. Elected parents and guardians will serve a two-year term on the boards, beginning July 1 and ending June 30, 2027.
How can you vote in CEC elections?
Parents and guardians are able to vote for each council that serves their children — meaning many families are eligible to vote in more than one council race. (Each parent gets one vote per child.) Parents can vote online using their New York City Schools Account. Voting will take place from April 25 through May 13, with run-off elections, if needed, from May 14 – June 2.
Why are some calling for changes to CEC elections?
CEC elections, which occur every two years, have faced criticism over insufficient outreach and dismal turnout figures. During the 2023 election cycle, roughly 19,000 votes were cast across the five boroughs — representing just 2% of the city’s public school families. In November, city Comptroller Brad Lander called on the Education Department to implement a series of changes to the CEC election process, after an investigation by his office raised concerns over the department’s handling of the 2023 elections.
Conclusion
The Community and City Education Councils provide an opportunity for parents to get involved in local and citywide education policy. By serving on a CEC, parents can have a direct say in the policies and priorities that affect their children’s education. If you’re interested in serving on a CEC, applications will open on Jan. 13 and close on Feb. 16. Don’t miss this chance to make a difference in your child’s education!
FAQs
Q: Who is eligible to serve on a CEC?
A: All candidates must be the parent or legal guardian of a New York City public school student.
Q: What are the responsibilities of a CEC?
A: CECs serve as largely advisory bodies, helping determine education policies and priorities across local districts and the city.
Q: How do I apply for a CEC seat?
A: Parents can apply through their New York City Schools Account when applications open on Jan. 13. Applications will remain open until Feb. 16.
Q: When do CEC elections take place?
A: Voting will take place from April 25 through May 13, with run-off elections, if needed, from May 14 – June 2.
Q: Why are some calling for changes to CEC elections?
A: CEC elections have faced criticism over insufficient outreach and dismal turnout figures, with some calling for changes to improve the election process.
