Former Governor Andrew Cuomo visited Masjid Ansarudeen Islamic Center in the Bronx on Saturday, September 20th, expressing his support for the creation of New York City’s first Arabic language charter school.
During his visit, Cuomo emphasized the importance of educational opportunities for all students and endorsed the efforts of Sheikh Ibrahim Niass and Muslim community leaders to establish the new charter school. “In particular, his willingness to support our efforts for an Arabic charter school is welcomed news,” Niass said in a statement.
Charter schools in New York City have grown increasingly popular, particularly among African families seeking alternatives to traditional public schools. Advocates argue that charter schools offer more structured learning environments, stronger accountability for academic outcomes, and higher proficiency rates in reading, writing, and math. Currently, the city has three Hebrew language charter schools, and community leaders have highlighted the need for an Arabic language option to serve the diverse student population.
Cuomo’s pledge underscores that charter schools are publicly funded once approved, meaning the start-up does not require private financing. Interested parties must complete a charter application that outlines curriculum, disciplinary, and employment policies, as well as grade-level programming. Once the application is approved, the state provides funding for facilities, staff, and other operational needs. The proposed Arabic charter school would be open to all students across the city, not only those from the Muslim community.
Cuomo’s campaign has positioned the proposed charter school as an example of educational innovation and equity, in contrast to socialist mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, who does not support charter schools. The mosque leadership welcomed Cuomo’s visit, praising his message of unity and his commitment to supporting the city’s diverse communities.
