Meeting of the Board of Regents | April 2020

Moment of Reflection from Chancellor Rosa - 

Every generation experiences its own, unique challenges. But it seems like our generation has had more than our fair share. The challenges we face right now are great and they are formidable. But we are facing them together – united like we’ve never been before.  

This pandemic has revealed just how interconnected we are and how much we rely upon one another. Everywhere you turn, you see people engaged in the most beautiful acts of kindness and generosity. It’s these countless acts of selflessness that will save us from this pandemic – and, ultimately, will make us a stronger people.

I’d like to take a moment to recognize the Governor and his incredible staff.  Governor Cuomo’s leadership throughout this crisis has been a national model.

And, of course, I have to thank and recognize the extraordinary bravery and sacrifice of our first responders throughout the State. Just think about the life lessons that our children are learning, in real time, from these genuine heroes. It gives me hope for our future.

I also have to recognize the tireless work of our own NYSED leadership and staff during this time. Thank you Interim Commissioner Tahoe, and thank you to our NYSED staff, and thank you to all of the superintendents, the D.S.’s, school boards, school administrators, teachers, parents, caregivers, and school staff who given so much and who work so hard to make sure that our system continues to move forward – and make sure that our children continue to learn.

There is a saying in Spanish….Palente, siempre palente. Forward, Ever Forward.

Before we begin our meeting, I ask for a moment of silence, for those who have succumbed to this virus in New York State, throughout our country and throughout the world. May their lives be a reminder to us all, that life is precious, and our responsibility as educators is to enable our children to be prepared to face the challenges to come in their generation.