Senator Zeldin Thanks Commissioner King for Visit, Remains Critical of Common Core Implementation

Senator Zeldin Thanks Commissioner King for Visit, Remains Critical of Common Core Implementation

New York State Senator Lee M. Zeldin (R, C, I- Shirley) just released the following statement after the conclusion of a meeting and tour with Commission John B. King, Jr. at John S. Hobart Elementary School in the William Floyd School District:

I want to take the opportunity to thank Commissioner King for taking the time to visit John S. Hobart Elementary School earlier this morning. Given the recent controversy surrounding planned PTA forums, I am appreciative that the Commissioner was able to move beyond those issues and join the William Floyd School District in mourning the heartbreaking loss of second grader, Aidan Tarbell, and his mother and twin 2 year old siblings, in last Friday's Shirley house fire. This tragedy has rocked our community and, having two daughters who were friends and classmates of Aidan, has touched my family very personally. Having the opportunity to visit Aidan’s classmates and witness their strength through this grieving process is something that will stay with me far beyond our time there this morning.

Before visiting Aidan’s classroom, we had the opportunity to meet with Commissioner King and various representatives from the William Floyd School District community, including the Superintendent, School Board President, PTO President, teachers and others. The conversation focused mostly on the implementation of the new Common Core standards. As someone who has been critical of this implementation process, it was especially important for  me to participate in this dialogue with Commissioner King and various members of the local community.

While the Commissioner and I do not see eye to eye on Common Core, it’s most important to maintain an open dialogue. Whether you’re for or against Common Core, or any other education initiative for that matter, there’s always room for improvement. If there is one thing we were reminded of today, it’s that we all have to remain open minded for the sake of our children. I will continue to voice my criticism and concern with Common Core.

Again, I thank the Commissioner for listening to the diverse feedback he received this morning and I hope that we can work together to address the various concerns with Common Core implementation.

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