Recent Press Releases and news
Our communications team is our primary point of contact for members of the media. We can connect you with experts and information on a variety of education issues impacting students pre-K through college. All press inquiries should be directed to the Communications Team at etnymedia@edtrustny.org.
To help expedite your request, please include your name and affiliation, story topic and deadline, a telephone number where you may be reached, and any other details pertinent to the request. We know that reporters often face tight deadlines, and we will respond as quickly as possible. To be added to our press list, please send your name, affiliation, beat, and contact information to etnymedia@edtrustny.org. We look forward to working with you.
EdTrust-New York Statement on Preliminary 2023-24 Statewide Assessment Results
We commend NYSED for releasing this important data before the school year begins to help inform instruction and provide information to parents. Last year, there was no public release of statewide assessment data until December. However, the newly released data is insufficient—it lacks disaggregation by student subgroups, does not detail district and school outcomes, and does not specify when and how parents will be receiving this information.
EdTrust-New York Statement on Middle School Math Investments
The decision to adopt Illustrative Mathematics across eight districts and provide centrally-funded professional learning demonstrates a clear commitment to enhancing math instruction for students and educators. This investment is poised to equip students with the foundational skills they need to succeed in higher-level mathematics and beyond.
EdTrust-New York Statement on the Conclusion of the New York Legislative Session
EdTrust-NY and our coalition partners championed innovative legislation during this legislative session, making significant strides to support families facing the greatest challenges in accessing child care.
EdTrust-New York Statement on Changing High School Graduation Requirements
While we support the New York State Education Department’s (NYSED) move to expand diploma pathways for students, our primary concern is that the proposed changes to graduation requirements will lead to varying standards of rigor across districts.
EdTrust-New York Announces the 2024 New York FAFSA Completion Challenge Winners
Recognizing exceptional public high schools across New York State, this accolade celebrates their dedication and efforts in aiding students to complete the FAFSA, a pivotal gateway for students from low-income backgrounds, students from immigrant households, and first-generation students to access crucial financial aid for higher education.
Call for Urgent Action: New York State assessment report analysis reveals proficiency crisis for students
A recent analysis the 2022-23 New York State Education Department (NYSED) assessments has revealed alarming disparities in student outcomes, particularly among students of color and from low-income backgrounds. These findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive action to address inequities in education and support student success statewide.
The New York Campaign for Early Literacy statement on FY 2025 state budget literacy investments
Key victories in the Enacted Budget include a $10 million investment in professional learning for current educators. This initiative will provide training and resources to up to 20,000 educators.
EdTrust-New York statement on FY 2025 state budget
The Enacted Budget marks a crucial milestone with New York’s first investment in literacy instruction aligned to the science of reading, alongside the introduction of a Universal Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) completion policy. These measures, aimed at fostering student success and accessibility, reflect a commitment to addressing historic disparities in education.
EdTrust-New York Statement Supporting Universal FAFSA Legislation
The Education Trust–New York supports adoption of the Universal Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) legislation to ensure more high school students access the critical funding needed to make higher education possible.
EdTrust-New York statement on graduation data for the class of 2023
The data released by NYSED lacks transparency in terms of how many students graduated with exemptions or other changes made to the graduation requirements during the pandemic.
Arlen Benjamin-Gomez named executive director of EdTrust-New York
Prior to joining Ed Trust–NY, Arlen worked as an education equity advocate and policymaker for more than 20 years, deeply rooted in the fabric of New York. She recently served as an education equity advisor and consultant, collaborating closely with states, districts, and nonprofit organizations to propel racial, socioeconomic, and cultural equity in education.
Ed Trust–NY launches the 2024 New York FAFSA Completion Challenge
As New York high school students make plans for their higher education, The EdTrust–New York is supporting those efforts with the launch of the 2024 New York FASFA Completion Challenge.