I am currently a 3rd year at NYU. It is indeed true, the school does kick people out for repeated poor performance. The weed out course is during the second year- Systems Pathology. NYU allows students who fail to remediate during the summer. Now, in the past, if you fail 1-2 remediation summer courses, you were allowed to retake the year failed - as long as your academic record was ok. If not, they boot you.
This year was a bit different for us, however. Since there is an abundance of now 2nd years, that allowed even less room for 3rd years to repeat 2nd year. So, NYU booted those who failed remediation. Is it fair? NO. You posted asking why we do not complain/confront the dean-- believe me, we have!
I don't want to sound like I do not like NYU- I really do. As with all schools, there are bearocratic issues. NYU is a large school and you have to be prepared and know that before beginning. Dental school is what you put into it. If you don't study, you will be kicked out. Bottom line- NYU is a good school and I feel like I am being properly prepared for my career as DDS.