Although the new school year has just begun, the Department of Education plans to excuse absences on Friday, Sept 20—for a cause.
According to a series of tweets, the DOE supports students who plan to participate in the Climate Strike, a highly anticipated event on NYC's September events calendar. The event will begin at noon on Sept 20 with a rally in Foley Square. Then, participants will march through the Financial District to Battery Park, where a subsequent rally will take place. As long as parents give the green light, NYC public schools support those who choose to join the movement.
The tweet is as follows:
"@NYCschools will excuse absences of students participating in the #ClimateStrike on Friday 9/20. Students will need parental consent. Younger students can only leave school with a parent."
.@NYCschools will excuse absences of students participating in the #ClimateStrike on Friday 9/20. Students will need parental consent. Younger students can only leave school with a parent. https://t.co/hcBO1Cnb3m
— NYC Public Schools (@NYCSchools) September 12, 2019
The DOE expressed encouragement...
"We will share guidance with schools, and encourage class discussions about the impact of climate change, and the importance of civic engagement. #ClimateStrike"
We will share guidance with schools, and encourage class discussions about the impact of climate change, and the importance of civic engagement. #ClimateStrike
— NYC Public Schools (@NYCSchools) September 12, 2019
...and praise.
We applaud our students when they raise their voices in a safe and respectful manner on issues that matter to them. Young people around the world are joining the #ClimateStrike this week—showing that student action will lead us forward.
We applaud our students when they raise their voices in a safe and respectful manner on issues that matter to them. Young people around the world are joining the #ClimateStrike this week—showing that student action will lead us forward.
— NYC Public Schools (@NYCSchools) September 12, 2019
Ahead of the UN Climate Summit in NYC, the strike plans to address fossil fuels, reparations for climate damage and other areas. Participants can expect speakers and an appearance by teen climate activist Greta Thunberg. If your children are interested in the subject, visit the best bookstores in NYC and our go-to kids' library branches to check out a few books on the topic.
To register for the strike and learn more, visit strikewithus.org.
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