New York’s leaders should reject any deal that weakens substantial equivalence and the state’s responsibility to ensure a sound basic education for all students. Every young person – regardless of the school they attend – has the right to an education that includes core subjects like English and math. These subjects are not just academic requirements, they are the tools young people need to express themselves, make informed decisions, and build full lives beyond their school years.

The governor is caving to political pressure and pushing for changes that would weaken oversight and allow some schools to bypass basic standards – and delaying the budget. At a time when the federal government is slashing support for public education, chipping away at the state’s responsibility is especially dangerous. New York must be clear: students’ futures are not up for negotiation. We need to draw the line – right here, right now.