The New York Times: Trade Schools in New York

 The New York Times

Trade Schools in New York

To the Editor:
Re “Stopping Fraud at Trade Schools” (editorial, June 6):

The licensed trade schools in New York State are heavily regulated and have been for over 20 years. The state Department of Education licenses career schools, approves their curriculums, licenses their teachers, agents and directors, approves their facilities and equipment, and monitors compliance. Enforcement is vigorous when appropriate, but most schools do their best to adhere to the rules.

Contrary to the editorial, New York’s licensed private trade schools are not “increasingly known for deceptive practices and saddling students with debt.” Deceptive practices are counterproductive to long-term school success in a competitive environment, and many schools boast excellent graduation and placement rates. The training courses at New York’s licensed trade schools tend to be short in duration and of only moderate cost, allowing students to receive a great benefit for their investment.

The pending bill on trade schools that your editorial refers to does not address what is perhaps the most significant problem in New York State regarding training: New York City’s refusal to require state licensure for participation in millions of dollars of work force training resources. As a result, unlicensed training providers are allowed to flourish.

The Coalition of New York State Career Schools seeks meaningful legislation that enhances quality education and eliminates loopholes that have allowed unlicensed schools to operate.
TERENCE M. ZALESKI
Executive Director/Counsel, Coalition
of New York State Career Schools
Garrison, N.Y., June 9, 2011