Proposed Montessori-Charter School in Schenectady Aims to Improve Literacy Rates among Black and Brown Students
SCHENECTADY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — As we continue to observe Black History Month, low literacy rates among Black and Latino elementary schoolers in Schenectady continue to be a concern. A proposed school wants to bridge that gap through a unique method.
A Unique Approach to Education
Local administrator George Borum has a dream. He wants to improve literacy rates amongst Black and Brown students by building a charter Montessori school combo, which will be the first of its kind in the area. The school will be called Schenectady Scholars. The expected launch date is Fall 2026. Borum, a former Charter school principal, is drawn to the method’s longer school days and years.
"Students are able to freely be able to just learn and just be able to work on certain things at their own pace and be more self-involved," said Borum.
A School with a Mission
Siarra Ramos, the lead board president for the proposed school, tells NEWS10’s Zion Decoteau that they have 100 supportive responses from local parents due to what she says is a great local educational need.
"We want to provide different opportunities, programs, and services for students who live in an area that has a great need. We want to provide a different opportunity, programs, and services for students who live in an area that has a great need," said Ramos.
Challenges and Goals
Between 2020 and 2022, only 19 percent of Schenectady Elementary Students tested at or above reading proficiency level, and only 15 percent for math. Black (26.4 percent) and Latino (23.2 percent) students are the largest group in the district (Source US News & World Report).
"If you struggle, especially those foundational levels, especially in K-4, then you’re going to continue to struggle in middle school and then in high school," said Borum. "Our goal is to be a place where we’re having students be able to learn, but also enjoy learning as well, and literacy is going to be a huge part of that," he added.
Class Size and Teacher Ratio
According to NYSED, the average class size for Schenectady elementary schoolers is between 14 and 16 students. Borum wants to lower that number to 11. "Ideally, we want to be able to have two teachers per classroom," said Borum. "It gives us the range to cater to students’ needs in the classroom," said Borum.
All-Black Women-Led Board
What’s also unique is the school’s all-black women-led board. Ramos says representation makes a significant difference.
"The large majority of teachers are women. Women are usually the majority caregivers of our children, and our target market of children that are in our care are Black and Brown children," Ramos explained.
Next Steps
Schenectady Scholar’s full application to the state charter school approval board is due by April 8. The specific location for the proposed charter school is still being finalized.
Conclusion
The proposed Montessori-Charter School in Schenectady aims to address the educational needs of Black and Brown students in the area. With its unique approach to education, all-black women-led board, and focus on literacy, this school has the potential to make a significant impact in the community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the proposed launch date of the school?
A: Fall 2026
Q: What is the average class size in Schenectady elementary schools currently?
A: Between 14 and 16 students
Q: What is the proposed class size for Schenectady Scholars?
A: 11 students
Q: What is the teacher ratio for Schenectady Scholars?
A: Two teachers per classroom
