NYC Schools Cancel Classes on Dec. 23: A 7th Grader's Petition Makes History

Summary:

NYC public schools will be closed on Monday, December 23, giving students and teachers an extra day off before winter break.
The decision comes after a successful petition by Brooklyn eighth grader Isaac Regnier, who advocated for the change.
Regnier's petition garnered nearly 23,000 signatures and prompted Mayor Eric Adams to announce the change.
Mayor Adams praised Regnier for his initiative, emphasizing the importance of student voices.
The extra days off are part of the city's commitment to accommodating various cultural and religious holidays.
The extra days off necessitate adjustments to the school year, including the increased use of remote learning during inclement weather.

NYC Schools Get an Extra Day Off Before Winter Break

New York City public schools will be closed on Monday, December 23, giving students and teachers an extra day off before winter break. This decision comes after a successful petition by Brooklyn eighth grader Isaac Regnier, who advocated for the change to avoid a one-day school week before the holidays.

Regnier's petition garnered nearly 23,000 signatures, prompting Mayor Eric Adams to announce the change at a celebratory event at the United Federation of Teachers headquarters. Mayor Adams praised Regnier for his initiative, emphasizing the importance of student voices in shaping education policies.

Isaac Regnier (center) lobbied the city to cancel class on Dec. 23. At a press conference on Wednesday, Mayor Eric Adams and United of Federation of Teachers President Michael Mulgrew pointed to Isaac as a catalyst for the extra day off. (Alex Zimmerman / Chalkbeat)

While Regnier's role in this decision is acknowledged, it's important to note that similar petitions were submitted in 2019, ultimately leading to the cancellation of school on Dec. 23 that year. The city's decision to grant the extra day off this year highlights its commitment to accommodating various cultural and religious holidays, contributing to a more inclusive school calendar.

The extra days off also necessitate adjustments to the school year, including the increased use of remote learning during inclement weather instead of traditional snow days.

Source: Chalkbeat