By SHANNYCE LASHLEY
Mayor de Blasio announced a new Saturday Academy program at the struggling Boys and Girls High School at a press conference on Tuesday.
De Blasio said that a number of changes have already taken place at the Boys and Girls High School, a school he says that has been struggling for over a decade. These changes included a new principal, the introduction of Advanced Placement courses, an increase in the senior graduation rate and climbing attendance rates.
A total of 94 schools have been enrolled in the $150 million School Renewal Program in New York City. The program was designed to introduce new and experienced leadership and new resources to improve academics at struggling schools.
“Nothing happens without the commitment of teachers, parents and students,” said Schools Chancellor Carmen Fariña in the school’s Library Media Center where the conference was held.
The Mayor said that the 94 schools would become “community schools” that offer mental health, physical well-being, or other vital support for the social, emotional, physical and academic needs of students and overcome problems that impede learning.
“I took this position to come to Boys and Girls High School because of the possibilities,” said Principal Michael Wiltshire. “Some of the improvements are that there has been an increase in the enthusiasm of students, an increase in student passing grades and an overwhelming majority of teachers voted to add more work to their day.”
Both de Blasio and Fariña said that Dr. Wiltshire was best suited for the job because of his track record of achievements and his dedication to his students.
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