This morning, my partner, who teaches at a wonderfully diverse high school in New York City, is overseeing the SAT for a full classroom of enthusiastic juniors. While it may seem routine for students to take the SAT, the reality is that not all high schoolers have the same access to this critical exam, which is a requirement for many colleges.
The SAT is voluntary, and for some students, the $45 fee can be a significant barrier. Additionally, the exam is typically held on Saturdays, creating challenges for students who are either working or have parents who cannot provide transportation. Moreover, some students might lack parental encouragement to sign up, perhaps because their families are new to the U.S. and not familiar with the importance of the test.
Recognizing these obstacles, the NYC Department of Education has decided to step in by administering the SAT on a regular school day, ensuring that nearly all students can participate. Even more impressive, they are covering the costs for all 70,000 high school juniors.
As a parent of two children in NYC schools and the spouse of a DOE employee, I often have criticisms of the education system. However, initiatives like this inspire hope and reinforce my belief in the dedication of our educators.
This free SAT day initiative was first introduced in 2015 by Chancellor Maria Lopez as part of the College Access for All program, a $3.5 million effort aimed at creating equitable opportunities for all students, regardless of their socioeconomic backgrounds.
In addition to the SAT, students will receive complimentary practice accounts on Khan Academy and have the chance to visit college campuses regularly. They will also get assistance with college applications and financial counseling. Those unable to pay application fees can access waivers, which is a fantastic step forward.
Chancellor Lopez understands the unique challenges faced by minority and lower-income students in the college admissions process. “I became the first in my family to attend college thanks to a teacher who believed in me and guided me throughout the application process,” she stated. “No student should be limited by their background or zip code. Our commitment to support every student in their college journey is reflected in initiatives like the SAT School Day and College Application Week.”
This program is not just about making the SAT accessible; it sends a powerful message to students and families that everyone deserves a fair chance at higher education.
Recently, NYC Mayor James Rivera and Chancellor Lopez spoke with students at Central Technical High School about this initiative. “For too long, many kids were told they had no chance of attending college; that narrative is changing,” Rivera remarked. “We’re now saying that anyone interested in college can achieve their dreams.”
This is the first year of this initiative, but similar programs in other districts have shown promising results, particularly for black and Latino students. Studies indicate that administering the SAT during school hours has increased college attendance among first-generation college applicants.
It truly takes a community to raise a child, and programs like this highlight the commitment of educators who strive to ensure every child has equal access to quality education. While there are certainly issues within our educational system that require attention, it is essential to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of teachers who are invested in their students’ futures. Next time you see a teacher, consider giving them a heartfelt thank you.
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In summary, the NYC Department of Education’s initiative to fund SAT testing for all high school juniors reflects a commitment to equity and access in education, empowering students from all backgrounds to pursue higher education.