New York has decided to eliminate its racially-based admissions policy for advanced STEM classes in middle and high schools after a lawsuit from Asian parents. This change came to light recently, revealing significant implications.
The Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP) aims to assist around 11,000 students from 11th to 12th grade across 56 colleges and medical schools in the state, focusing on increasing the representation of historically marginalized and economically disadvantaged students in fields like math, science, technology, and health.
Yiatin Chu, a co-founder of the Asian Wave Alliance, expressed her approval regarding the state’s decision to end the racially-based admissions. She noted that her daughter faced discrimination under this policy, which barred her from applying for the Summer 2024 STEP Program at NYU simply due to her race. Chu described her child as “capable and ready” but was disappointed to see that eligibility was influenced by race.
While students from Black, Hispanic, and Native American backgrounds can apply without considering family income, Asian and white students have to meet specific income thresholds, raising questions about fairness.
Another parent shared frustrations about their 11th-grade daughter, who excelled academically but couldn’t apply because she didn’t meet the family income criteria. Instead, they had to invest significantly in an alternative summer science program.
Amid ongoing legal actions, state education officials have asked those overseeing the STEP and CSTEP programs to stop considering race as a factor for admissions, focusing only on economic criteria instead.
A memo from Anael Alston, an aide within the New York State Department of Education, stated that the legal disputes center on eligibility criteria concerning student race and ethnicity, highlighting the need to clarify guidelines during this period of uncertainty.
However, while the NYSED aims to uphold access for historically underrepresented students in technical fields, Alston noted that the revised guidance would prioritize economic factors rather than racial ones for admissions.
Still, the conversation isn’t entirely settled. Some legal representatives for Asian parents argue that state officials recognize the illegality of race-based policies but are insufficiently committed to dismantling them entirely. They express concerns that the language used leaves room for continued discrimination.
Critics, like William Jacobson, founder of a prominent legal organization, voiced that New York’s recent actions suggest a retreat but aren’t fully adequate. He insists that any remaining discriminatory requirements should be completely abolished.
The historical context is crucial here. Back in 1985, New York legislative attempts were made to enhance STEM interest among low-income and underrepresented students. However, after recent Supreme Court rulings on affirmative action, the program’s foundations have come under scrutiny, challenging longstanding practices aimed at addressing historical inequities.
