New York City Public Advocate Protecting Our Children

Every student in our City deserves a high quality education. Every school in our City has a responsibility to teach and protect each and every child who walks through its doors. Sadly, some schools in our City are failing this basic responsibility and severely mistreating our most vulnerable children such as those with disabilities. That's why today, I filed a federal civil rights complaint against Success Academy Charter Schools. For years, Success Academy has been denying children with disabilities and their families the educations they deserve. Success Academy has failed to provide reasonable accommodations to these children, such as paraprofessionals and occupational therapists; and has coerced students with disabilities and their families to leave the charter network altogether. We will not stand for mistreatment and discrimination against any New Yorker, especially our most defenseless children and their families. We will hold any institution responsible for their actions to ensure that every student has the education they deserve. We'll continue to take action to protect the most vulnerable New Yorkers and make sure our schools are safe spaces for all students. We were joined in our civil rights complaint by Council Member Dromm and advocates - you can read more about it here.

Sincerely,  Letitia James New York City Public Advocate