Your guide to NYC's public proceedings.
PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Testimony by Naomi Neptune, Student from New York Edge
5:55:37
ยท
134 sec
Naomi Neptune, a student from New York Edge, testifies about the importance of after-school programs and the benefits they provide to students. She emphasizes the academic, social, and personal development opportunities these programs offer and argues against potential budget cuts.
- Neptune shares her personal experience transitioning from Catholic school to public school and the positive impact of New York Edge's after-school program.
- She highlights how the program offers diverse activities, including sports, trips, and academic support, which contribute to students' well-rounded development.
- Neptune stresses that cutting the after-school program would be detrimental to students' growth, exploration, and social connections, ultimately making school less enjoyable and potentially increasing stress and anxiety among students.
Naomi Neptune
5:55:37
Yeah.
5:55:38
I was firstly introduced to New York Edge when I was a young girl because my mom works in a public school, I used to go to Catholic school.
5:55:45
But firstly, I wanted to talk about how the New York Edge after school program provides many benefits that help students thrive both academically and socially.
5:55:55
The program offers a variety of experience that I look forward to every day, such as basketball.
5:56:01
They help us, do extracurricular work, like, workouts and stuff.
5:56:06
They, offer trips that make me exposed to different environments, such as, colleges or high schools and stuff like that.
5:56:15
So I attended Catholic school from kindergarten to seventh grade until I transferred to MSM twenty seven.
5:56:21
My mom is a teacher in the school, and I particularly grew up here wishing that I could take part of all these activities that go on during after school.
5:56:29
My old school never took us on trips or did fun activities, so all of this was something fun and exciting for me.
5:56:35
As a student, I have strongly believed that cutting the after school program would be a huge mistake.
5:56:39
This program is not just an opportunity for fun.
5:56:41
It plays a crucial role in our academic and personal development.
5:56:45
Firstly, it provides us with the chance to engage in subjects we may not fully explore during regular school hours, such as leadership, art, or SEL through hands on activities and projects.
5:56:55
These experiences reinforce what we learn in class and help us develop critical thinking and problem solving skills.
5:57:01
Additionally additionally, the after school program offers a safe space for us to unwind and socialize with friends, fostering teamwork, and collaboration.
5:57:11
Beyond academics, we're we participate in sports, clubs, and creative activities that allow us to discover new passions and build confidence by nurturing our our interest outside of this traditional classroom setting.
5:57:23
The after school program helps us create well rounded individuals and encourages us to stay engaged in our education.
5:57:29
If this program work out, we would lose valuable opportunities for growth, exploration, and connection with our peers, making school a less enjoyable place to be.
5:57:38
Lastly, spending time with friends can reduce stress and anxiety, which are common among different students.
5:57:43
In a safe environment, we can relax, have fun, and unwind from academic pressures leading to a healthier balance in our lives.
5:57:50
Thank you.