BREAKING: New data from the New York State Education Department confirms that Success Academy has achieved the highest math test scores among all public schools in New York, with an impressive 96% of its students passing. This remarkable achievement comes amid a nationwide decline in academic performance, making it a critical point of discussion among education stakeholders.
Success Academy, which serves over 22,000 predominantly low-income Black and Hispanic students, not only topped the math rankings but also secured the second spot in English Language Arts with a 92% pass rate, just behind Scarsdale Union Free School District. The latest results highlight the stark contrast in educational outcomes, as Scarsdale reports no economically disadvantaged students.
CEO Eva Moskowitz criticized the United Federation of Teachers (UFT) for remaining silent about her school’s success while opposing the expansion of charter schools. “It’s time we stop accepting excuses and denying parents access to quality education,” she stated. Moskowitz emphasized that Success Academy operates as a “school district” despite being a charter network, providing district-level services to its students.
The newly released test scores come as alarming statistics reveal a nationwide decline in student proficiency. According to the National Assessment of Education Progress, only 39% of fourth-grade students and 28% of eighth-graders are achieving proficiency in math.
Moskowitz’s comments echo a growing frustration in the education sector, especially as charter schools face opposition from teachers’ unions. The UFT has filed lawsuits against Success Academy, attempting to block the co-location of its schools within public school buildings in Queens and Brooklyn, citing class-size caps. This ongoing battle highlights the contentious nature of education reform in New York.
Success Academy was founded in 2006 and has grown to become the fourth-largest school district in New York State. The network’s consistent academic success challenges the narrative that public schools are the only viable option for quality education.
With the stakes higher than ever, education advocates are calling for a reevaluation of funding and resources in the wake of these latest results. As the debate continues, all eyes are on the future of charter schools and their role in addressing educational disparities.
The New York State Education Department has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the new test score data. As discussions intensify, the implications of these developments will be felt across the education landscape, making this a critical moment for students and families in New York and beyond.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
