NYC spikes proposals to open AI-focused high school, close Manhattan middle schools
NYC spikes proposals to open AI-focused high school, close Manhattan middle schools
Publish Date: 2026-04-27 06:30:00
Source Domain: www.chalkbeat.org
- New York City schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels is withdrawing proposals to open a selective artificial intelligence-focused high school, close two middle schools, and relocate another.
- The proposal for Next Generation Technology High School faced fierce community opposition and raised concerns about equity and access as a “screened” school.
- Withdrawal of the proposals makes it nearly impossible for them to take effect next school year, as they were scheduled for a vote in front of the city’s Panel for Educational Policy.
- Chancellor Samuels cited a need for more time to engage the community and a desire not to push proposals too quickly after a major leadership transition.
- Panel members raised concerns about the fairness and the segregated nature of screened schools and argued for a broader approach to AI literacy.
- Families from the proposed middle schools expressed their opposition, fearing they would not find the same level of support for their children in new schools.
- The administration has shown a willingness to back away from proposals when faced with significant community pushback, particularly after recent controversies involving school closures.
- Chancellor Samuels aims to revisit the proposals with a more comprehensive plan for community engagement and in alignment with the city’s draft AI guidance.
