Know Thyself Community Wednesday – Why Are Parents Not Requesting Transfers Out Of Failing Schools?

TOPIC:

Why would a parent that has the opportunity to move their child into a school of good standing not exercise that right?

OVERVIEW:

We The Parents of Buffalo, a collaboration of parents, community organizations, faith-based leaders, and concerned educators have spearheaded a campaign to get 10,000 students registered for transfer requests; students seeking to be moved from their failing schools to schools in “good standing.” Now your request for a transfer to a school in “good standing” does not guarantee that your child will actually be transferred from a failing school. You must file a request to transfer in order to preserve your right to have your child be taught in a good school.

According to the No Child Left Behind federal law, parents have the legal right to demand a transfer of their children out of failing schools and into schools in ‘good standing.” The law does not permit a school district to claim “lack of capacity” as a reason for not honoring transfer requests. As a matter of law, your request for a better educational environment for your child must be honored by the Buffalo School District and supported by the New York State Education Department. If you have a child in a “Priority” or “Focus” school, you have the legal right to demand a transfer of your child into a school in “good standing.”

For more info on how to transfer your child to a school of "good standing" go to buffaloschools.org or call (716) 816-3500.

Today is the last day that you can make your transfer request to be considered for the 2014-15 school year.