The Hidden Fight for Education Standards

In the middle of New York's budget talks, a secret battle is unfolding. The target? Rules that make sure private schools, including religious ones, teach important subjects like math, science, English, and history. These rules are called "substantial equivalency" regulations. They ensure that private schools teach these subjects as well as public schools do. The fight is happening behind closed doors. Why? Because those pushing for changes know most New Yorkers would be upset if they knew what was going on. The rules are not about hurting religious schools. They are about making sure every child gets a good education. Every kid in New York should learn to read, write, do math, and understand basic science and history. These skills are important for getting a job, voting, and being part of society. Many people think these subjects are basic and necessary. But some lawmakers see it differently. They call these subjects part of a "woke" agenda. They say the rules are a "war on parental rights" and "trampling on religious schools' autonomy. " This is not true. What is truly radical is trying to get rid of basic educational protections. Many students in some religious schools, especially Hasidic and Haredi yeshivas, do not get basic instruction in these subjects. As a result, many graduates struggle with simple tasks. They cannot speak English well, fill out job applications, or understand the world beyond their religious communities. This is a big problem. It denies these children the chance to build a future for themselves and their families. Some lawmakers try to frame this as a fight over "freedom. " But it is not. Many yeshivas already balance religious and secular instruction well. The rules just want to make sure all schools meet a basic standard. The rules have been developed carefully over years. They balance respect for religious traditions with the state's duty to provide a good education. Now, some lawmakers want to undo this work in a secret budget deal. This is not fair. It is being done at the expense of children who cannot defend themselves. These lawmakers use the same rhetoric seen in national attacks on public education. They talk about "parental rights, " "radical progressives, " and "big government. " This is the same playbook that has led to book bans, anti-LGBTQ policies, and the whitewashing of American history. Now, it is being used to keep children from learning basic skills. New York's leaders must reject these attempts to weaken educational oversight. Every child, no matter their background or school type, should have access to the tools needed to succeed. This is a value we should all support. The state education department has a duty to uphold these standards. Lawmakers must let them do their job without political interference. This is not about attacking religion. It is about ensuring every child gets a good education.