E-Mail Newsletter – September 25, 2013

Are more than two-thirds of our New York State students really "failures?" Of course not. However, that's the feeling many have been left with following the State Education Department's new and tougher Math and English Language Arts tests last spring. In a commentary in today's Albany Times Union, I raise serious concerns about the issue of too much testing and the premature implementation of tests on the new Common Core curriculum in schools, as well as the impact it has on our students and their self-esteem. I share the concerns raised by parents and educators regarding the negative impacts of over-testing and I have been advocating for changes (including a letter sent by fellow state legislators to the Board of Regents); however, more work on this issue remains. I welcome your feedback or copies of letters to the editor that you may have written. Here are a few activities and events in the 109th that may be of interest: + The 1st Annual Albany Falcon 5K & Fun Run/Walk, hosted by the Albany Booster Club to support sports, is this Sunday, September 29th at 9:30 a.m. at Washington Park Lake House. Join me and my family in running! + Congratulations to the Delmar Farmers Market on being named as one of the top 101 farm markets in the country! There are over 8,000 farmer’s markets currently in operation and your support of local farms, local foods and local crafts has made this possible. It's harvest season and a great time to visit our local farmers markets before that season closes. Here’s a directory of farmers’ markets across Albany County. If you have any upcoming events or happenings in your neighborhood, let my office know by sending us a note. As always, for the latest about my office’s happenings or for upcoming events, please visit my office online, on Facebook, and on Twitter. Sincerely ---
Pat
Patricia A. Fahy
Member of Assembly
109th District