Is Mayor de Blasio’s Plan to Alter Admissions Criteria at NYC’s Specialized High Schools a Good Idea?

Introduction

As a longtime resident of New York City, I can affirm that Mayor de Blasio has benefitted from the lessons of running a popular and diverse city. However, his recent proposal to alter the admissions criteria for New York City’s eight specialized/magnet high schools has raised significant concerns. The aim here is not to criticize the mayor himself but to critically evaluate this policy from various perspectives.

Contradictory Priorities

Mayor de Blasio’s plan is deemed problematic for several reasons. Firstly, the focus should be on improving the foundational schools, ensuring that students from all backgrounds have a strong educational foundation. The specialized schools, which are already highly populated with minority students (Asians, Indians, and whites), may appear as a solution to “under-serve” other groups. Yet, parental involvement plays a crucial role in a child's education. Irrespective of their socioeconomic status, children can succeed with the right support and effort. The mayor may be looking for an easy fix; however, this policy overlooks the real issues facing a diverse, urban educational landscape.

Addressing Fairness and Diversification

Expanding admissions criteria for New York City’s specialized high schools, particularly the Specialized High School Admissions Test (SHAST), is a worthy goal. Currently, about 30,000 eighth graders compete for approximately 4,000 seats. This archaic system is clearly out of step with the broader American educational landscape. Ivy League institutions, including Harvard, Yale, and Princeton, now rely on a range of criteria beyond standardized test scores. The SHAST should be just one aspect of a comprehensive assessment process, accounting for only 25-30% of the total evaluation.

To achieve a more balanced and fair admissions process, a multi-faceted application should be developed. This could include:

Middle school transcripts Alternative test scores Teacher recommendations Writing samples Possible phone or video interviews

Under such a system, a student with a strong, well-rounded profile may fare better than one who has simply had a lucky day on the SHAST. This process would be more holistic and take into account a broader range of variables that contribute to a student's educational achievement.

Real-World Implications

Ignoring the mismatch issue in special high school admissions can have serious consequences. Students ending up in the wrong institution may face academic challenges and missed opportunities. It is better to excel in a less competitive environment and gain access to elite universities, than to underperform at a specialized school where the competition is fierce. Every year, numerous students are placed in educational settings that do not suit their needs, leading to suboptimal outcomes both academically and in terms of future opportunities.

Quotas and Socioeconomic Goals

One point of contention in Mayor de Blasio’s proposal is the inclusion of socioeconomic quotas or borough-specific restrictions. While it is important to ensure equitable access, placing 20 spots strictly for Manhattan residents is not the right approach. Instead, expanding the Discovery Program can help increase enrollment among Black, Latino, and Native American students. Additionally, allowing retesting after completing the Discovery Program, based on SHAST performance, can further refine and improve the admissions process.

Another proposal is to create specialized middle and junior high schools in each of the five boroughs. These schools can serve as feeder institutions, better preparing students for specialized high schools. This strategy not only addresses equity but also ensures that students are adequately prepared for the rigorous and diverse academic environment that awaits them.

In conclusion, while Mayor de Blasio’s intention to expand access to specialized high schools is commendable, the implementation plan needs a thorough overhaul. A more comprehensive and equitable admissions process, coupled with the implementation of targeted programs, can ensure that all students have the opportunity to excel.