Earlier this year, I called on the Governor to intervene to help settle the statewide teacher evaluation issue, and I am grateful that he has stepped in to help bring this to a conclusion.

Today's announcement reflects a successful compromise by all parties involved and allows us to move forward in making our schools the best they can be. The original intent of the 2010 law that led to New York's Race to the Top award can now be fulfilled.

I remain hopeful that we can avoid school closures in New York City, which continues to be a bargaining issue between the Mayor and the United Federation of Teachers, since overcrowding is already a chronic problem in our public school system.

There is no greater responsibility than to ensure our children have the confidence, intelligence and compassion they need to become our future leaders. This is the responsibility of not only teachers, but parents, administrators, and lawmakers. I applaud Governor Cuomo for his efforts so we can ensure New York's students get the quality education they deserve.