Formed in 1969, serves New York City students from birth through age 26, focusing on students from low-income backgrounds who are struggling in school or experiencing school discrimination.
Primary geographic focus: New York
Organization type(s): Provider
Tags: Children & Juvenile, Education, Schools: Discipline, Schools: Discrimination
Advocates for Children of New York works on behalf of children who are at greatest risk for school-based discrimination and/or academic failure due to poverty, disability, race, ethnicity, immigrant or English Language Learner status, sexual orientation, gender identity, homelessness, or involvement in the foster care or juvenile justice systems.
Advocates for Children of New York (AFC) is the most trusted and experienced organization fighting to ensure that ALL New York City students have access to a quality education. We believe every child deserves an excellent education regardless of the obstacles they face.
We serve New York City students from birth through age 26, focusing on students from low-income backgrounds who are struggling in school or experiencing school discrimination of any kind, including suspensions, inappropriate class placement, or denial of necessary services. No matter what challenge your child faces, we will advise you on your child’s specific situation and work with you to ensure that he/she receives the educational services he/she is legally entitled to receive.
During 1969–1970, a group of parents and community activists come together to form Queens Lay Advocate Service (QLAS). This volunteer organization provided trainings on the legal rights of students and assists families with school-related problems, particularly inappropriate suspensions. QLAS partnered with local anti-poverty organizations such as the Education Action Center. In 1976, QLAS legally merged with ASFEC, and the organization adopted the name Advocates for Children of New York (AFC).
Advocates for Children of New York (AFC) has been protecting the right to education for New York City’s children for more than 40 years. Our unique and flexible approach to problem-solving gets students the support they need to succeed, educates and empowers families, and drives meaningful education reform.
This page last modified: Tue, October 18, 2016 -- 1:42 pm ET