New York Teachers Union Sues to Block Charter Schools on Long Island

The New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) has initiated legal proceedings against the State University of New York (SUNY) and The Academy Charter School network to prevent the establishment of three new charter schools in Suffolk County. The lawsuit, filed in Albany Supreme Court, claims that SUNY's approval of the schools violates state law and disregards significant community opposition. The proposed schools include an elementary and middle school in Brentwood and a high school in Central Islip.

NY teachers’ union sues to block 3 Long Island charter schools, claiming ‘abuse of authority’Long Island charter schools: NYS United Teachers sues to overturn Brentwood, Central Islip charter school approvals

NYSUT President Melinda Person stated that the approval process was flawed, asserting that SUNY has consistently ignored community voices and education experts. “Public education works best when decisions are made with communities — not imposed on them,” Person remarked. The union's legal action is supported by 11 parents from the affected districts, who argue that the charter schools would divert essential resources from existing public schools.

NY teachers’ union sues to block 3 Long Island charter schools, claiming ‘abuse of authority’

In response to the lawsuit, SUNY officials defended their decision, emphasizing that the charter applications underwent a rigorous review process. Joseph Belluck, chairman of the SUNY charter school committee, described the lawsuit as lacking a strong legal basis. “We followed the process under the law,” he stated, asserting that the Academy's proposals were solid and backed by numerous letters of support from local officials.

NY teachers’ union sues to block 3 Long Island charter schools, claiming ‘abuse of authority’

The NYSUT lawsuit highlights concerns regarding the impact of charter schools on traditional public education. Critics, including representatives from the Brentwood and Central Islip school districts, argue that the new charter schools would enroll fewer economically disadvantaged and at-risk students compared to local public schools. According to state reports, economically disadvantaged students comprised 91% of the Brentwood school population and 64% in Central Islip.

NY teachers’ union sues to block 3 Long Island charter schools, claiming ‘abuse of authority’Long Island charter schools: NYS United Teachers sues to overturn Brentwood, Central Islip charter school approvals

The Academy's founder, Barrington Goldson, characterized the lawsuits as "wholly without merit," suggesting that they are more about the union's interests than student welfare. He expressed confidence that the legal challenges would not hinder the planned openings of the schools, which are set to begin operations in Brentwood this fall and in Central Islip in 2027.

Long Island charter schools: NYS United Teachers sues to overturn Brentwood, Central Islip charter school approvals

While the NYSUT claims that the charter school applications lack adequate community support, SUNY maintains that their approval process is nationally recognized for its rigor. Additionally, the New York State Parent Teacher Association has joined the lawsuit, echoing concerns about local resistance and the potential negative impact on public schools.

NY teachers’ union sues to block 3 Long Island charter schools, claiming ‘abuse of authority’

The legal proceedings will unfold in the coming weeks, with SUNY expected to respond formally in court. The outcome of this lawsuit could set a significant precedent for the future of charter schools in New York and their relationship with public education systems.

NY teachers’ union sues to block 3 Long Island charter schools, claiming ‘abuse of authority’