As NY district implements science of reading, parents push for new focus on math

Parents in the Rochester City School District are rallying for improvements in student performance, especially in reading and math. The district has set a goal to raise proficiency in both subjects to 40% by June 2028, implementing programs like Amplify Core Knowledge Language Arts and Really Great Reading. However, parents worry that while literacy is in the spotlight, math outcomes aren’t receiving the same focus. Advocates like Shanai Lee, founder of the nonprofit READY, argue that the district’s previous emphasis on graduation rates, sometimes at the cost of academic rigor, has done a disservice to students. Lee’s organization recently launched the Parent ACTION Academy, a nine-month program that equips families with tools to push for higher academic standards. “We are ready for change. We are ready for quality schools,” said Lee.