NY officials defend schools chief Betty Rosa's $155K hush-hush raise by citing her sex, race

New York education officials justified Betty Rosa's substantial $155,000 salary increase, now totaling $489,000 annually, by emphasizing the historical pay disparities for women of color. Chancellor Lester Young stated the importance of recognizing these inequities, while also defending Rosa's impact amid declining test scores and criticism from Republican politicians. Critics accused the board of distracting from the education department's challenges by focusing on race, asserting that the increase reflects irresponsible spending in a time of academic struggle for students.

"In this moral moment, it is imperative to recognize that female leaders, particularly those of color, have historically been subjected to lower compensation rates compared with their peers."

"The Board of Regents adhered to all required procedures, protocols, and notifications in adopting the recent pay increase for Commissioner Rosa - an increase that reflects both the magnitude of the challenges that New York's school communities encounter."

Read at New York Post