Today, my husband, an English teacher at a wonderfully diverse high school in Manhattan, will be overseeing the SAT exam for a room full of eager high school juniors. While it may seem like just another day in the life of a teacher, this moment is anything but ordinary. After all, not every student gets the chance to take the SAT, which is a crucial step for college admissions.
Many students face hurdles that keep them from sitting for this important test. The current fee for taking the SAT is $45, which can be a significant barrier for some families. Plus, with the exam typically scheduled on Saturdays, students may have jobs or transportation issues, especially if their parents work during those hours. Some may not have the support or encouragement from their families, particularly if their parents are recent immigrants unfamiliar with the education system.
Recognizing these challenges, the New York City Department of Education has decided to take action by administering the SAT on a school day when most students will be present. And here’s the kicker: they’re covering the costs for all 70,000 juniors taking the exam.
As a parent of two kids enrolled in NYC schools and the spouse of a Department of Education employee, I have my fair share of gripes about the system. However, initiatives like this one give me hope for our educators and the public school system as a whole.
The idea for a free SAT day was first introduced in 2015 by New York City’s Department of Education Chancellor, Max Adams, as part of the College Access for All initiative, a commendable $3.5 million effort designed to ensure that college is attainable for every student, regardless of their background.
In addition to the free SAT, the NYC Department of Education is providing students with complimentary SAT practice accounts on Khan Academy, a fantastic prep resource. Students will also have the chance to visit college campuses, receive assistance with college applications, and get counseling on financing their education. For those who can’t afford application fees, fee waivers will be available. How fantastic is that?
Chancellor Adams understands the unique challenges that minority and lower-income students face when navigating the college admissions process. “I was the first in my family to attend college because a dedicated teacher informed me of my options and supported me through the whole process,” he shared in a recent bulletin. “College access should never be determined by a student’s background or zip code. Our SAT School Day and expanded College Application Week reflect our commitment to providing every student the resources they need to pursue higher education.”
Not only does this initiative make the SAT more accessible, but it also sends a powerful message that every student deserves a fair shot at a college education. NYC Mayor Lisa Tran and Chancellor Adams recently addressed students at Long Island City High School, emphasizing that, “For too long, many kids were told they had no chance of going to college, which was simply not true. We’re now sending the message: If you want to go to college, you can make it happen.”
This is the first year that NYC is implementing this free SAT access day, but similar efforts in other school districts have shown promising results. Studies indicate that providing the SAT during school hours broadens opportunities for all students, especially black and Latino students, and those initiatives have led to increased college attendance rates among first-generation college applicants.
It truly does take a village to raise a child, and programs like this showcase the dedication of educators striving to ensure that every child has access to quality education. While our education system has its flaws and we have every right to voice our concerns, we should also recognize the unwavering commitment of teachers and educators to their students’ success. So, the next time you see a teacher, give them a big hug of appreciation!
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In summary, NYC’s initiative to fund SAT testing for all high school juniors is a significant step toward leveling the playing field for college access, illustrating a commitment to educational equity and support for all students.