Statement on Shutdown of NYC Schools from Citizens' Committee for Children of New

York (CCC)

November 18, 2020 -- ​The following statement can be attributed to CCC's Executive Director
Jennifer March:

"As news rolls out today about a systemwide shutdown of New York City schools starting
Thursday, CCC remains deeply concerned about the health and social-emotional well-being of
our City's students during this time, as well as the quality of remote learning they will receive.

School closures disrupt the lives of children and the capacity of parents to work, and have a
particularly devastating impact on the most vulnerable populations of students, such as students
with special needs, students living in temporary housing, and English-language learners. These
challenges are compounded by the fact that many households across New York City still lack
remote learning devices, access to WiFi, cellular data service, or adequate technological
support needed for successful remote engagement.

We urge the DOE to take immediate action to ensure that all of New York City's students are
now provided with the support they need to facilitate successful remote learning, with particular
attention to special populations of students. The administration must also ensure that the
community-based organizations running the city’s early care, afterschool, and Learning Bridges
sites, have every support they need as they remain open to offer critical services to families,
including school enrichment programs, academic help, young child development, health and
mental health services, and nutritional supports.”

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