Res. No. 1226
Resolution calling upon the New York State Legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign, legislation requiring a moment of silence in all public schools at the beginning of each school day.
By Council Member Deutsch
Whereas, Moments of silence are observed at the beginning of school across the country as a secular, non-sectarian way for students (and faculty) to meditate, reflect, set goals, or engage in any other silent, positive activity; and
Whereas, More than 30 states, including New York, currently either allow, or mandate, schools to hold a moment of silence; and
Whereas, Both students and faculty have attested to the positive effects of a moment of silence at the beginning of school, with then-Assistant Principal Hadar Gafhi of P.S. 191-a school in Brooklyn where the majority of students come from low-income households-saying, “I have seen tremendous changes behavior-wise and in terms of punctuality…We’re seeing tremendous academic growth in our kids”; and
Whereas, Tuishawn Burke, then a 10-year-old 5th grade student at P.S. 191, expressed in reference to the moment of silence, “I think about how I’m going to make today a great day…It helps me focus more so I can complete my work”; and
Whereas, Requiring all public schools to observe a moment of silence has the potential to positively impact students’ academic and behavioral progress; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the Council of the City of New York calls upon the New York State Legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign, legislation requiring a moment of silence in all public schools at the beginning of each school day.
LS #11633
1/22/2020 4:05 PM
M.T.