Graduation standards, New York State economy, Penn Station problems
LIRR riders head for the train at Penn Station. Credit: Morgan Campbell
State grads need clear standards
For two years, the Long Island Council for the Social Studies has urged the state education commissioner and Board of Regents to provide specifics regarding assessments tied to the “Portrait of a Graduate” [“New paths to graduation,” News, Sept. 15]. The article says this is the clearest window yet into what the board and state Education Department mean by these new requirements. If so, the meaning remains unclear.
The article notes that a department official acknowledged the full picture is still incomplete, but the new paths for graduation are slated to take effect in the 2027-28 school year.
This massive, historic change, moving from requiring Regents exams, which date to the 19th century, to an untried model lacking specifics regarding accountability, has left many wondering why the guidelines will not be addressed until February 2027.
Without specifics, no one can say whether standards will be rigorous. In their place are glittering generalities, even as this sweeping shift is about to occur.
— Gloria Sesso, Port Jefferson
The writer is president of LICSS.
Focus on growth to save Empire State
The article about the bills awaiting Gov. Kathy Hochul does not address the needs of the citizens of New Yorkers [“The bills that are sitting on Hochul’s desk,” News, Sept. 6]. What is the governor doing about increasing the number of businesses and bringing wealth and industry back to the state? Many bills mentioned have little, if any, impact on New Yorkers. The governor is embracing parts of Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s socioeconomic agenda, like the pied-à-terre tax. These actions are why New York is no longer the Empire State but the Exit State.
— John Romano, Baldwin
Stop the stampede at Penn Station
Here’s a novel Penn Station design idea: Don’t force customers to stand around waiting in the main hall while track numbers are posted five or six minutes before departure, which guarantees a stampede [“A way to end mad dashes for trains at Penn Station,” News, Sept. 8].
I have experienced this firsthand on multiple occasions over the years. Perhaps this new “through-running” concept would end the rush of people.
— David Grossman, Oceanside
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