This morning, my partner, who teaches literature at a wonderfully diverse high school in Brooklyn, will oversee the SAT exam for a full classroom of high school juniors. At first glance, this may seem quite ordinary. After all, don’t all high school students take the SAT? What makes this event noteworthy?
Not every high school student has the chance to take the SAT. While it’s a requirement for most colleges, participation is voluntary, and for many, the $45 fee is a significant obstacle. Additionally, the test is typically scheduled on a Saturday, which can pose challenges for students who work or have parents with demanding jobs who cannot transport them to the testing location. Some students may also lack encouragement from their families, perhaps due to cultural factors or recent immigration, leading to a lack of awareness about the exam’s importance.
Recognizing these barriers, the New York City Department of Education has stepped in to facilitate the SAT during a school day, ensuring that most students are present. Even more impressively, they are covering the costs for all 70,000 high school juniors to take the exam.
As a partner of a New York City educator and a parent of two children in city schools, I have my share of critiques about the Department of Education and the broader educational system. However, initiatives like this one offer a glimmer of hope, showcasing the dedication of educators and the potential of public schools.
The initiative for a free SAT day was originally announced in 2015 by the city’s Department of Education Chancellor, Maria Johnson, as part of the College Access for All program—a $3.5 million effort aimed at leveling the academic playing field for all students, regardless of their financial background.
In addition to offering free SAT access, the New York City Department of Education also provides students with free SAT practice accounts on Khan Academy, a well-known SAT prep platform. Furthermore, students will have opportunities to visit college campuses, receive assistance with college applications, and gain counseling on financing their education. Those who cannot afford application fees will be eligible for waivers.
How fantastic is this? Chancellor Johnson has firsthand experience with the difficulties minority and low-income students often face in the college admission process. “I became the first in my family to attend college because a teacher recognized my potential and guided me through the application process,” Chancellor Johnson noted in a recent bulletin. “Every student, regardless of their background or zip code, deserves the opportunity to pursue higher education. The SAT School Day and the expansion of College Application Week reflect our commitment to providing the necessary support and resources for all students.”
This sentiment is echoed by Mayor James Smith, who, along with Chancellor Johnson, spoke to students at a local high school about the initiative. “For a long time, students were led to believe they had no chance of going to college, and that was often untrue,” Smith remarked. “We are now sending a new message: Anyone who aspires to attend college has the opportunity to succeed.”
This marks the inaugural year for New York City’s free SAT access day, but similar programs in other districts have shown promising results. Research indicates that offering the SAT during school hours increases opportunities for students, particularly for Black and Latino students, and has led to higher enrollment rates at four-year colleges for first-generation college applicants.
It truly takes a community to nurture a child, and programs like this demonstrate the commitment of many educators who strive to ensure equitable access to education for all students. While our educational system is not without flaws, it’s essential to recognize the dedication of teachers who genuinely prioritize the well-being and success of every child. So, the next time you encounter an educator, consider giving them a heartfelt thank you.
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In summary, New York City’s initiative to fund SAT testing for high school juniors represents a significant step toward equalizing educational opportunities, especially for marginalized groups. The program not only alleviates financial burdens but also encourages students who may lack support at home, reinforcing the message that every student deserves a fair chance at higher education.