Dear Students, Families, Faculty, and Staff,

I am writing to share important information regarding a proposal currently under consideration: the establishment of New Dawn Charter High School III within the Newburgh Enlarged City School District’s boundaries. After careful review, the District strongly opposes this proposal because of the harm it would cause to our students and schools. Charter School proposals are reviewed and approved by New York State. A district Superintendent and/or Board of Education cannot approve or deny this proposal. 

In the application, it has been portrayed that there is broad support for this proposed charter school. This is not accurate. The Newburgh Enlarged City School District remains committed to Every Goldback, Every Day, and we firmly believe in the value and strength of a Newburgh education. Our focus continues to be on providing equitable opportunities, supporting our students, and building on the progress we have made as a district.

Why We Oppose the Proposal
Financial Burden – At full enrollment, New Dawn would divert approximately $9.6 million per year from our schools. These funds support programs, services, and staff that directly benefit the more than 12,000 students we already serve. Additional costs such as transportation, special education, and instructional resources would further reduce the resources available for our students.
Duplication of Services – The proposed charter seeks to serve over-aged and under-credited students, but NECSD already offers comprehensive supports in this area. Our district provides career and technical education pathways, internships, work-based learning, evening school, credit recovery, college and career counseling, and alternative education options designed specifically to meet these needs.
Equity and Accountability Concerns – NECSD is committed to serving all students equitably, including English Language Learners and students with disabilities. Evidence shows that charter schools often serve fewer high-need students, leaving districts with greater responsibilities but fewer resources.
Lack of Proven Academic Benefit – Research shows no consistent evidence that charter schools outperform public schools. Many charters across New York have struggled academically, while NECSD continues to strengthen innovative programs and expand opportunities for all students.
Community Opposition – Our Board of Education, local elected officials, national teachers’ associations, and many community partners have already expressed strong opposition. Families in Newburgh have made clear that they want to see our district programs strengthened, not destabilized. Our collective opposition is something we can all agree on.

Our Commitment
Despite this challenge, NECSD remains dedicated to innovation, equity, and community partnership. We will continue to build programs that meet the needs of all learners and prepare our students for college, careers, and life.

How You Can Help
The New York State Education Department is accepting public comments on this proposal until September 22, 2025. We encourage you to make your voice heard by submitting a letter to the Board of Regents. A template letter is available for your use if you would like guidance in drafting your response. 

A second public hearing has been scheduled for Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at 6:00pm. All feedback provided will be recorded and shared with NYSED. The link to the recording of the first public hearing can be found by clicking this link. We extend our sincere gratitude to Assemblyman Christopher Eachus, members of the Board of Education, district administrators, and community members who took the time to voice their concerns regarding the proposed Charter School during the initial public hearing. We remain hopeful that additional members of our community will continue to speak out and submit written comments before the state’s final deadline.

As the Acting Superintendent of Newburgh Schools, an alumna of our public school district, and a taxpayer in our community myself, I vehemently oppose the proposition by New Dawn Charter High School III. Together, we must protect the resources, programs, and opportunities that belong to the students of Newburgh.

Thank you for your continued commitment to our schools and our community.

Sincerely,

Onyx Peterson
Acting Superintendent
Newburgh Enlarged City School District

Learn more by clicking this link: Oppose Charter Schools in the Newburgh Enlarged City School District