Previously Published in The Messenger
By Dr. Timothy Eagen
A recent opinion column written by Steve Levy praised Long Island’s charter schools, suggesting they offer families an alternative to what he described as “failing, violent local school[s].” (“Many Will Benefit from New Charter Schools in Suffolk,” October 23, 2025)
As an educational leader and president of the Suffolk County School Superintendents Association, I welcome any dialogue about improving opportunities for children. However, the assertions in Mr. Levy’s column are misleading and unsupported by data. The piece offers opinions but no evidence to substantiate its claims – and in discussions about education, facts matter.
As we discuss education on Long Island, it’s essential to recognize the unparalleled role that public schools play in shaping our communities, supporting families, and providing opportunity for all.
Public schools are not just part of the Long Island story – they are Long Island’s story. They are where generations of residents have learned, worked and grown together. They are deeply woven into the fabric of every community, serving as both educational institutions and community anchors. Our public schools reflect the incredible diversity, talent, and commitment of those who live here.
The Promise of Public Education
Later this school year, our nation will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The concept of publicly funded education in America actually predates that milestone by more than a century. From the earliest colonial schools to today’s districts, the idea that all children are entitled to an education in the community where they live has been a defining feature of our nation.
By law, public school districts must enroll every child of compulsory age who resides within their boundaries. This is not a monopoly or an outdated construct – it is one of the enduring pillars upon which our country was built, ensuring that education remains a public right, not a privilege. The promise of public education is simple: every child is welcome. There are no applications, no lotteries, and no conditions.
On Long Island, our public schools bring that promise to life every day. They serve students who speak dozens of languages, come from every economic background and represent every ability and aspiration imaginable. Our educators meet students where they are and help them realize their full potential.
Accountability and Community Connection
Long Island’s public schools are among the most accountable in the nation. Every budget must be approved by voters. Every board of education is elected by residents. Transparency and community involvement are not afterthoughts; they are at the core of how our schools operate.
That level of accountability builds trust. It ensures that taxpayer dollars are used responsibly and that the public has a direct voice in how their schools are run. Our districts are not managed by outside organizations or distant boards; they are led by community members who live, work and raise their families here.
Fact: Over the past four years, charter schools have diverted $539,053,509 from Long Island’s public schools — with minimal local oversight or public accountability. That is funding that would otherwise support students directly through educational programs, classroom resources, and expanded learning opportunities.
Public schools are not businesses. They are public institutions, grounded in service and guided by the values of fairness, equity and inclusion.
Continuous Growth and Innovation
Long Island’s public schools are continually evolving. They are not standing still; they are innovating every day. Districts across Suffolk County have expanded access to STEM programs, career and technical education (CTE), early college experiences and advanced coursework. They are investing in social-emotional learning, mental health supports, and literacy initiatives that help students thrive both academically and personally.
Our schools are preparing students for futures that look very different from the past, for careers that haven’t yet been invented, for colleges that expect flexibility and collaboration, and for a society that demands both empathy and critical thinking. This work is driven not by competition, but by collaboration among teachers, administrators, parents and community leaders who all share one mission: to help every child succeed.
Choice and Understanding
Families want the best for their children, and we respect that parents may explore different educational options. Charter schools are part of that landscape, and many operate with dedicated educators who care deeply about their students.
However, it’s important to understand that charter schools are structured differently. They are publicly funded but privately managed. Their boards are not elected by local residents, and they are not bound by the same transparency, auditing, and open meeting requirements that govern public school districts.
Public schools, by contrast, operate in full public view. Every decision, every dollar and every policy is subject to oversight. Our schools are directly accountable to the communities they serve. Accountability is one of the greatest strengths of our educational system.
Performance, Equity, Excellence, and Safety
When measured fairly, Long Island’s public schools are among the best in New York State and among the best in the nation. They consistently outperform state averages in graduation rates, Regents performance, college readiness, and career preparation. There is also NO data to suggest that charter schools outperform Long Island’s public schools.
Our schools serve far more diverse populations than many realize. They support students with disabilities, English language learners and those in economic hardship, often with exceptional results. Public schools provide specialized programs, counseling and enrichment opportunities that extend well beyond academics.
Additionally, based on the publicly available data provided by the New York State Education Department (NYSED), no public school in either Suffolk or Nassau County has been identified as violent or dangerous. Mr. Levy’s characterization of violent public schools is simply not true and/or supported by facts.
Economic and Community Impact
Public schools are not just centers of learning; they are cornerstones of local life. They are among the largest employers in Suffolk and Nassau counties and play a major role in sustaining property values, supporting local businesses and strengthening civic engagement. Public schools serve as both the educational and social center of their communities. School events bring communities together – from concerts and games to graduation ceremonies that celebrate a community’s shared success.
When we invest in public schools, we invest in the future of Long Island itself. Every dollar spent in our public schools benefits students, families and local communities alike.
A Shared Commitment to All Students
Public education has always reflected our highest ideals as a nation – equity, access and opportunity. Long Island’s public schools embody those ideals every day.
As superintendents – the educational leaders in our communities, we respect and support families who explore educational choices. But we also know that the strength of our region depends on a strong, inclusive and well-supported public school system.
Public schools are not perfect, but with 350 years of experience, they are continually evolving and improving. They serve every child, every day, with transparency and accountability and. They are the foundation upon which Long Island’s future is built, and that is something we should all celebrate and protect.
Dr. Timothy Eagan is the President of the Suffolk County School Superintendents Association.