Carta en Espanol
LETTER IN OTHER LANGUAGES!
Dear Families,
As you may know, May is Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month. This is the time when we celebrate the
culture, history, and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) in the United States. I am
always humbled when I think about the role Asian and Pacific Americans played in the formation of this city
and country. From building the first transcontinental railroad to fighting for America throughout the different
wars, these communities have deep roots throughout our nation. And they have made important contributions as
small business owners, teachers, doctors, artists, scientists, in technology fields, and in so many other ways.
As Chancellor, it is important to me that our students and educators explore the rich traditions and achievements
of people of AAPI heritage. It’s also important to have the hard discussions about the horrific rise in violence
against our fellow AAPI New Yorkers and Americans. In schools, we are supporting this by providing
curriculum resources accessible to educators in all grades. And at every turn, we must reinforce that there is no
room for discrimination of any kind in New York City’s public schools. To our AAPI students, staff, and
families: The Department of Education stands in solidarity with you. We will continue to honor your diverse
and powerful voices.
For some amazing resources that are great for discussions at home with your children, visit
schools.nyc.gov/togetherforjustice. In addition, your children can access a collection of hundreds of e-books
and audiobooks honoring the contributions Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Americans have made to the
lives and culture of the United States. These books are available through the Sora app; students can log in at
soraapp.com/welcome/login/310229 using their DOE credentials.
I want to share one more important link with you: the link to our 15th annual NYC School Survey,
which launched this week! I encourage all families and teachers in grades 3K through 12, and students in
grades 6-12, to visit nycschoolsurvey.org by June 11 to share your thoughts on your school experience this
year. Tell us what you think about student well-being and engagement, communication from your
school, culturally responsive education, how your school has supported you, and teaching and learning. Your
school will use your feedback to think about the learning environment and work with all members of the school
community to make the school a better place to learn.
As always, I am grateful for you and how you support your children every step of the way. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Meisha Porter
New York City Schools Chancellor