This morning, my partner, who teaches English at a wonderfully diverse high school in Manhattan, will oversee the SAT exam for a full classroom of high school juniors. At first glance, this might seem like a typical event—after all, isn’t taking the SAT a rite of passage for every high school student? However, the truth is that not all students have the chance to sit for the SAT.
While most colleges require the SAT for admission, taking the exam is voluntary, and the $45 fee can be a significant obstacle for many families. Additionally, SATs are usually held on Saturdays, which may pose challenges for students who work or have parents who cannot provide transportation. Furthermore, some students may lack encouragement from their families to register for the exam. This lack of support could stem from various factors, such as immigrant parents who may not understand the importance of the SAT.
Recognizing these barriers, the New York City Department of Education has stepped in to facilitate the process. They are administering the SAT on a school day, ensuring that all students can participate. Even more impressively, the Department will finance the exam for all 70,000 high school juniors in the city.
As the partner of a city educator and a parent of two children enrolled in New York City schools, I have my share of criticisms regarding the Department of Education and the overall educational system. Yet, initiatives like this one (which seem to be increasingly common) restore my faith in public education and its commitment to student welfare.
The concept of a free SAT day was introduced in 2015 by Chancellor Maria Thompson as part of the “College Access for All” initiative, a $3.5 million campaign aimed at leveling the educational playing field so that every student has a chance at college, irrespective of their socioeconomic background.
Alongside free SAT access, students will also receive complimentary SAT practice accounts on Khan Academy, a valuable resource for test preparation. Additional support includes regular visits to college campuses, assistance with college applications, and counseling on how to afford post-secondary education. Students who face financial hardships will also be eligible for fee waivers for college application costs.
How remarkable is that? Chancellor Thompson understands the challenges faced by minority students and those from low-income families in navigating the college admissions landscape. “I became the first person in my family to attend college because a teacher informed me about my options and guided me through the application process,” she stated in a Department of Education bulletin.
“The chance to attend college should never depend on a student’s background or zip code. The SAT School Day and the expansion of College Application Week highlight our commitment to providing every student with the necessary support to pursue higher education,” Thompson emphasized.
Not only does this initiative make the exam more accessible and affordable, but it also conveys a powerful message: every student, regardless of their circumstances, deserves a fair opportunity at a college education.
In a recent visit to Queens Vocational and Technical High School, Mayor John Rivera and Chancellor Thompson spoke to students about the initiative. “For years, many kids were told they had no chance of going to college, which was often incorrect,” Rivera remarked. “Now, we are sending the opposite message: anyone who aspires to go to college has the opportunity to succeed.”
This marks the first year that New York City’s Department of Education has implemented a free SAT day, but other school districts have seen success with similar programs. Research shows that offering the SAT during school hours broadens opportunities for students, particularly for Black and Latino students. The Department reports that SAT School Days have led to increased attendance at four-year colleges, especially among first-generation college applicants.
It truly takes a community to nurture a child, and programs like this demonstrate that there are passionate educators committed to ensuring equitable access to a comprehensive education for all students. While our educational system has its flaws, it’s essential to recognize that teachers and educators genuinely care about the well-being of every child.
So, the next time you encounter a teacher, take a moment to show your appreciation with a heartfelt hug.
In summary, New York City is taking a commendable step to provide its high school juniors with free access to the SAT, ensuring that every student has a fair shot at a college education. This initiative, part of a broader movement towards equitable access in education, reflects the dedication of educators to support all students in their academic journeys. For those interested in exploring more about home insemination, you can check out this blog post.