The role of parent coordinators in NYC will be shifting during the Mamdani administration in order to increase parents/guardians involvement in school events and activities.
“I think he’s the first person I’ve ever heard in the New York City government even address us or talk about us or even acknowledge that we exist,” said Edison Parent Coordinator, Mariella Chevry. “So the article was a complete surprise that we were even mentioned, honestly.”
The Edison parent coordinator Mariella Chevry has been at Edison for the last 4 years. She communicates with parents about the activities, events and policies that are in effect at Edison. The changes that Mayor Mamdani wants to make to the role are more transparent with parents/guardians of students in Edison and NYC as a whole.
“More awareness on issues and things going on around the school and more clear communication sounds all positive to me,” said Gym Teacher Chris Zogopoulos.
There can be an apparent disconnect between parents/guardians and schools. These policies will hopefully bring parents out of the dark on a multitude of things that involve their children. “Parents will be able to connect easier with their students and stay informed on what’s going on. High school parents may feel disconnected to their teenage students, being up to date can bridge that disconnect,” said the Edison Parent Teacher Association Secretary Sabrina Bharratt-Sookai.
Some curiosity and confusion has circulated on how exactly Mamdani wants to change the Parent Coordinator role. “So what are you going to do? It’s cool and it’s nice. You’re going to work with us, but what are you going to do to make things better for the PCs? What exactly does that mean?”
You may be asking “Are these changes necessary? Are parents/guardians not already informed about their children’s school enough?”
“Personally, I think the PC and Edison community including the PTA keep our families very informed. However, being informed is always beneficial for students and parents,” said Edison Parent Teacher Association Secretary Sabrina Bharratt-Sookai. “It would be better because as stated teenagers may not always share all school info and events, this helps parents stay connected.”
