Parent Leaders for Accelerated Curriculum and Education (PLACE NYC), a citywide education advocacy group, has officially endorsed Andrew Cuomo for mayor, highlighting his commitment to expanding academic opportunities in New York City public schools.
PLACE NYC praised Cuomo’s plan to broaden Gifted and Talented programs across all boroughs, giving children ready for acceleration greater access closer to home. The group also emphasized his pledge to protect the Specialized High School Admissions Test (SHSAT) and expand preparation support for students. Cuomo has proposed doubling the number of Specialized High Schools from nine to 18, a move PLACE NYC said aligns closely with their mission.
“Without a doubt, Andrew Cuomo’s education plan aligns best with our advocacy. He understands that families who rely on public schools want more academic rigor and more opportunities for accelerated learning,” explained Lisa Marks, co-president of PLACE NYC. Deborah Kross, co-secretary of the group, added, “As a parent leader with three students educated in NYC schools, I appreciate Cuomo’s breadth and depth of knowledge in education policy and desire to be held accountable for his education agenda.”
In response to the endorsement, Cuomo thanked PLACE NYC and highlighted his commitment to improving educational outcomes citywide. He said, “Every parent knows education is the great equalizer. It’s how we give our children the chance to get ahead and live better lives than the generation before them.” Cuomo outlined his plan to implement universal 3K, replace underperforming schools with models tailored to their communities, expand Gifted and Talented programs, and protect the SHSAT while increasing prep opportunities in underserved neighborhoods. He emphasized that his approach aims to ensure all children have access to quality education and real opportunities for advancement.
PLACE NYC emphasized the importance of mayoral leadership in shaping the city’s education system, noting that the next mayor will directly influence millions of students. The group encouraged parents eligible to vote to participate in the election, with voter registration open until October 25, early voting from October 25 through November 2, and Election Day on November 4.
Cuomo’s campaign framed the endorsement as recognition of his record and proposals to strengthen public schools and expand academic opportunities, aligning with PLACE NYC’s goals of promoting accelerated learning and rigorous educational standards.
