There is something commendable about the mayor and the school chancellor’s efforts to integrate New York City schools. However, their emphasis on the end goal of integration as opposed to the means of achieving such an end result is misguided.

Removing tests and altering the admission process to elite schools is the politician’s approach to education, not the educator’s. The real disparity among students is in their respective economic circumstances and the solution is to provide greater economic resources to schools and students in need. This will require a sustained effort that could produce results over time. Inequality is the issue and this problem cannot be rectified by altering standards. Instead of having integration as their primary goal, the chancellor and the mayor should focus on improving academic opportunities for all.

Larry Hoffner, retired