Pagee Cheung

Make no mistake, this year’s New York state budget is good for families. Not only will there be unprecedented levels of funding for public schools, but Governor Kathy Hochul and state legislative leaders also took an important step towards providing more high quality schools to families across New York City. They smartly agreed to revive the 14 open public charter school licenses known as “zombie charter schools,” But make no mistake, there’s nothing to fear from these zombies.

Make no mistake, this year’s New York state budget is good for families. Not only will there be unprecedented levels of funding for public schools, but Governor Kathy Hochul and state legislative leaders also took an important step towards providing more high quality schools to families across New York City. They smartly agreed to revive the 14 open public charter school licenses known as “zombie charter schools,” But make no mistake, there’s nothing to fear from these zombies.

Youth employment programs at work (photo: William Alatriste/City Council) A 2021 report by the city warned that up to 25% of New Yorkers aged 18-24 were at risk of becoming “disconnected,” meaning neither working nor attending school. And indeed, nearly 18% of young New Yorkers are unemployed, with rates for young men and women of color even higher.