By George Huber
Even though CNN continuously rolled coverage of a“killer” winter storm heading for New York on February 13th, Mayor Bill de Blasio decided that New York’s public schools would remain open. CBS New York reported extensively on the mayor’s explanation of his decision, as well as the criticism he received from his constituents and other public figures. Mayor de Blasio apparently felt that people rely on the schools to care for their children during the day and believed the safety hazards were overstated. Parents, on the other hand, were vocal on social media expressing their fears that the roads were unsafe for buses. Even Al Roker publicly criticized the mayor for misrepresenting the facts about the weather forecast on Twitter. In the end, CBS reported that only 44% of students attended school.
Letitia James, the Public Advocate, also intimated that the school closing dilemma may be grounds for significant change. James told CBS that the criteria for closing schools needed to be re-evaluated in light of this storm. As Public Advocate, James acts as an ombudsman for the city council, and can introduce and co-sponsor legislation. She could use these powers to try and alter the outcome of the next winter storm closing scenario, but it remains unclear what action, if any, James might take.
Sources
http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2014/02/13/uft-criticizes-decision-to-keep-nyc-public-schools-open-during-winter-storm/
http://advocate.nyc.gov/about-office
@NYCMayorsOffice says snow was faster/heavier than expected. No, Mr. Mayor. It came as predicted. Don't blame weather for YOUR poor policy
— Al Roker (@alroker) February 13, 2014
Mr. Mayor, I could never run NYC, but I know when it's time to keep kids home from school
— Al Roker (@alroker) February 13, 2014
