Albany, NY - Senator José M. Serrano has signed onto a Senate bill that would continue, though amend, Mayoral Control of New York City schools. It would establish a panel to advise the Chancellor on arts education, and work to improve compliance with state law.
 
"I have voiced strong concern for the arts during our deliberations, and I am thrilled to see the issue being addressed," said Senator Serrano, the Chair of the Cultural Affairs, Tourism, Parks & Recreation committee. He applauded Democratic Conference Leader John L. Sampson, the prime sponsor of the bill, for his leadership.
 
"There is a currently a disconnect on arts education," said Serrano. "The state mandates one thing and the city does another. We have less class time, fewer art teachers, and no more Project ARTS," he said, in reference to a city funding stream that is no longer dedicated to arts education.
 
"Public participation - and parental engagement - will undoubtedly improve the prospect of a more diversified educational experience in the five boroughs."
 
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