Sunset Park has seen the number of children enrolled in its public schools soar over the past decade. Of the ten elementary schools in the neighborhood, eight are overcrowded. On average, overcrowded schools are at 143% capacity and some schools reach 165% capacity.
In 2015, Voces Ciudadanas joined other community organizations and residents to demand the immediate construction of quality schools in Sunset Park. Together, we collected close to 2,000 signatures that were presented to Chancellor Fariña at a town hall meeting in November, 2015. See coverage by WNYC
On October 22, 2015, Voices Ciudadanas supported a rally to demand that the Sunny 39 Hotel was transformed into a school. Days before, the hotel had been closed for allegations that a prostitution ring operated there.
Parents Rally for Schools Over Hotels in Sunset Park
BRIC: Transforming a Brothel into a Sunset Park School
Brooklyn Parents Turn Sex Hotel Into Schoolhouse
We have been working along members of the Make Space for Quality Schools in Sunset Park campaign and organizing parents to demand an immediate solution to school overcrowding in Sunset Park. Check out our zine on school overcrowding in the neighborhood.