New York City, NY, USA:  Democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani unveiled a new initiative, the “Classroom to Community Policy,” aimed at addressing the city’s critical teacher shortage. The plan proposes hiring an additional 1,000 teachers annually on top of the 4,000–5,000 educators NYC typically recruits each year.

The announcement comes as a recent state law mandates smaller class sizes, requiring 7,000–9,000 new teachers by 2028. Kindergarten through third-grade classes will now be limited to 20 students, grades four to eight to 23, and high school classes to 25.

Mamdani highlighted financial incentives and support programs to attract new teachers, including tuition assistance for college students, mentorship from experienced educators, free transit passes, and opportunities for career changers. High school graduates can also earn college credits and receive $12,000 annually if they commit to teaching in city schools.

The initiative emphasises placing teachers in high-need districts and increasing the number of bilingual educators. Mamdani also announced plans to eliminate the kindergarten Gifted & Talented program, citing concerns over early segregation.

The mayoral election is set for November 4, where Mamdani will face former Governor Andrew Cuomo (Independent) and Republican Curtis Sliwa. Recent polls show Mamdani leading the race.