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RYE, N.Y. -- Thirty-five residents joined elected officials on Saturday, Dec. 14, for "Coffee and Conversation" and discussed the implementation of the Common Core program as well as the Sustainable Playland Initiative.
State Sen. George Latimer, Assemblyman Steve Otis and County Legislator-elect Catherine Parker hosted the event.
Both Latimer and Otis expressed their unhappiness with the rigidity of the State Education Department in refusing to consider changes to the current Common Core plan, according to a release.
A number of parents raised their concerns about over-testing children, teaching to standardized tests and reducing the creativity and fun of learning.
The two state legislators outlined possible action that may be taken in January or thereafter, when the state Legislature goes backs into session.
Some residents also expressed concerns about the Sustainable Playland Initiative regarding parking overflow, noise, and quality of life issues for the residents who live near Playland Amusement Park in Rye.
All asked for greater transparency through accessing key documents of the plan and a more vigorous dialogue with the Rye community.
Parker indicated her plans to organize a public forum to review the matter in greater detail early next year.
The "Coffee and Conversation" sessions, held regularly in Rye and Mamaroneck, were launched in 2005 by Latimer, then an assemblyman, and outgoing County Legislator Judy Myers.
Latimer and Otis plan sessions in Port Chester and New Rochelle in January, with Latimer hosting other dates elsewhere in his 15-community Senate district.
All three representatives welcome public feedback on these and other points at any time.
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