EMPOWERING THE FUTURE
Harvey’s Future-Ready Education Plan
Harvey’s family’s upward mobility is a product of public schools. His father’s success was possible because Brooklyn College was free. And Harvey’s ability to become a civil rights and housing attorney, and later public servant, was made possible because he had access to an affordable public education. He is running for the New York City Council because that promise must be renewed for the next generation of New Yorkers.
A thriving city depends on a world-class education system that champions equity, innovation, and opportunity. To build a dynamic and inclusive future, we must ensure every child gets the head start, support, and access they deserve. As housing costs rise and families—especially Black middle-class families—are forced out of NYC, we must act with urgency to invest in bold, breakthrough policies that keep families here and empower students.
1. Early Intervention, Lifelong Impact
Early detection of learning disabilities changes lives. Disproportionately, those in our prison system had undiagnosed learning challenges. We must implement universal early screening so that every child receives the resources they need before challenges become barriers.
2. Universal 2K & 3K: A Game-Changer for Families
NYC has tested early childhood education pilots. It’s time to go all in. Expanding free, high-quality early education citywide gives every family—regardless of income—access to a strong foundation for lifelong success.
3. Free After-School for Every Title 1 Family—No Exceptions
Every child deserves access to free enriching after-school programs, no matter where they go to school. Right now, Title 1 families lose out if they choose to go to a non title 1 school. That must end. Expanding free after-school access will drive diversity, equity, and stronger educational outcomes.
4. Paid Internships for Every High School Student
Too many students drop out because they need to work. Let’s re-imagine high school—with paid, career-building internships that provide real-world experience, income, and a pathway to long-term success.
5. Free CUNY: Guaranteeing College Access for All
NYC should promise every high school graduate a free, guaranteed spot at CUNY for two years. College transforms lives and careers. Let’s make it a reality for every student—not a privilege for the few.
6. Beyond Tuition: Full College Support for Students in Need
Tuition isn’t the only barrier—books, MetroCards, food, and housing can make or break a student’s ability to stay in school. For students with financial need, we must provide wraparound support—free transportation, meal plans, and housing—to ensure real, sustainable access to higher education.
7. Trade School Pathways to Thriving Careers
College isn’t the only road to success. We must invest in trade schools—offering direct pipelines to high-paying, union-protected jobs in skilled trades and emerging industries. Every student deserves a clear path to economic independence.
The Bottom Line: A Thriving NYC Starts in the Classroom
This is about more than education. It’s about power, opportunity, and keeping our city strong. By investing in bold, transformational policies, we build a future where every child has the tools to lead, innovate, and thrive—right here in Downtown Manhattan and throughout New York City. Let’s make it happen. Together.