Mayor Bloomberg is serving breakfast to select groups of parent leaders at Gracie Mansion as part of a new public-relations campaign to push his education reforms.
During the first breakfast session Friday, Hizzoner and 15 parents discussed issues ranging from school violence to overcrowding.
Recent public-opinion polls show that parents are split over the mayor’s overhaul of the school system. The mayor is now trying to find ways to connect with his key school customers.
Parents who were at the first breakfast said they were impressed with Bloomberg’s approach. “I think he’s on the right track,” said Lisa Urban, parent association president of PS 116 in Manhattan’s Murray Hill neighborhood.
Lower East Side parent Donna Gordon said parents pulled their punches in such a civilized setting. “It was a real treat to be there,” she said. “You can’t yell at a guy while he’s giving you breakfast.”