The New York State legislature will shortly decide which candidates, among more than twenty applicants, will be appointed to four Regents positions.

There are four candidates who have made a firm commitment to oppose high stakes testing and would bring excellent experience.  You can read about these candidates here: http://www.nysape.org/nysape-endorses-full-slate-of-candidates-for-the-board-of-regents.html.

Please take the time to email your state senator or assembly member, and insist that they actively participate in the interview and selection process. Let them know that you support: Mike Reilly, Regina Rose, Audrey Baker and Dr. Carol Mikoda.  You will find a sample email below.

Here is an easy way to access your senator and assembly person’s contact information:

Find your Assembly Member: http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/

Find your Senator:  http://www.nysenate.gov/senators

If you have the time, also contact Speaker Sheldon Silver, and Assemblywomen Nolan and Glick. We are hearing that keeping incumbents is “tradition”. This is not an acceptable response in a democracy.

Thank you for your efforts on behalf of our students. The sample email follows.

Sample email

 

Dear      :

On February 4, and then again on February 11, Assemblywomen Nolan and Glick will lead interviews for four positions on the Board of Regents.  It is my understanding that there are many candidates for these positions.

I am writing to let you know that I do not believe the four incumbents, Regents Cea, Jackson, Cotrell and Norwood, should be reappointed.   We need Regents who are actively engaged with parents and communities and who listen to educators who know our children best.

As your constituent, I am asking that you attend those interviews.  I also ask for your support of the following four candidates:  Michael Reilly, Regina Rose, Dr. Carol Mikado and Audrey Baker.  All four candidates know that our children are more than a number or a data point.  As Regent Board members, these candidates will fight for authentic and quality education for all children in New York State.

Thank you.  I look forward to watching your participation in the interview process.

Sincerely,