Education, at the elementary, secondary and post-secondary levels, is the gateway to a better quality-of-life for the marginalized and under-represented in society. However, our children are not being properly positioned for success in college and the workplace. For example, in the Bridge MCP’s “backyard” of New York City, many children are poorly educated. According to a recent article, only 28% of the city’s third-through-eighth grade students passed the state’s reading tests this year. Student’s performance in math was similarly troubling, with only 33% of the city’s grade 3 through 8 pupils passing state exams. These numbers require prompt, radical improvement if our children are to meet the nation’s college entrance and career readiness goals. To that end, the Bridge MCAP looks forward to working with the city’s public and private schools to ensure that all children are able to achieve and succeed academically.
Across the nation, children born with developmental disabilities have demonstrated a need for greater support. The Bridge MCP advocates for the creation of stronger, more comprehensive relationships with local school districts and mental health agencies to ensure that all children who are developmentally delayed receive the best possible educational services. These interventions must be delivered in the least restricted environments and in a timely fashion.