Students, parents and school leaders react to plans to cancel Regents exams

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — By 2029, public school students in New York State could have one less requirement to turn the tassel and graduate.

On Monday, the Board of Regents outlined its plans to change the graduation process, including phasing out regency exams.
The plan is to expand the options for what students can do to earn a degree.
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So what do parents, students and school leaders think about these changes? I gave them a microphone so they could hear their thoughts.

Natalie Schlosser, senior at Niagara Falls High School

“I think it’s a good idea because it opens up the opportunity for more internships and for kids to get to work and not just sit in a classroom,” said Natalie Schlossergraduate of Niagara Falls High School. “They should have more options: if you want to hire regents, do it, if not, it’s not mandatory, you don’t need it to graduate.”

Mark Lorry, Superintendent of Schools, Niagra Falls City School District

“I think it’s time for a change, and I think the regent’s recommendations are excellent, I really do. I think it reflects where kids are in school today,” he said. Mark LorrySuperintendent of Schools for the Niagara Falls City School District.

Lorrie’s only concern is that the proposed timeline is too far off.

“These are such good ideas, and I think the world is moving so fast that maybe an accelerated timeline will be more beneficial for students than 2029.”

Edward Spidel, President, District Parent Coordinating Council

“Private schools do not accept regents. So why should our children do this?” asked Edward Speidelparent of four Buffalo Public Schools students, one of whom is left to graduate and has autism.

“For a lot of kids with disabilities it will be a lot easier because they won’t be as nervous. I think it gives him a brighter future and makes him proud that he can be just like his siblings and get a high school diploma.”