Formula driving $25 billion in state aid to NY schools finally faces retooling

The Rockefeller Institute’s review of the Foundation Aid formula begins seeking public input starting on July 16, so community is encouraged to provide written or in-person testimony at the upcoming hearings across the state. Advocates and critics alike have long emphasized the need to update metrics to reflect 21st-century educational costs that ensure equity across … Continue reading Formula driving $25 billion in state aid to NY schools finally faces retooling

Join Our Foundation Aid Testimony Prep Sessions

The Foundation Aid school funding hearings are fast approaching!  Join one of our prep sessions to find out what you need to know to be part of this process, so you’re ready to make your voice heard. Many hearings will be happening far from our high-need communities, like Rochester, Syracuse, and Yonkers, making it challenging … Continue reading Join Our Foundation Aid Testimony Prep Sessions

Jamaal Bowman’s Fight for Justice: Our Struggle for Equity Continues

Today we express our deep appreciation for the campaign that Congressman Jamaal Bowman and his team ran, one centered in love, equity, and a vision for a better future for all of us. Jamaal and his team fought valiantly for the future of Black and brown communities, for all of us, and his dedication to … Continue reading Jamaal Bowman’s Fight for Justice: Our Struggle for Equity Continues

N.Y. School Boards executive director: Rockefeller Institute has been ‘transparent’ on Foundation Aid formula update

The Rockefeller Institute is preparing to update the Foundation Aid formula, which hasn’t been fully updated since 2007. While Governor Hochul aimed to end the “Save Harmless” provision and introduced a lower inflationary factor in funding, some lawmakers have persisting concerns about costs. The update could significantly impact racial and economic justice issues in education, … Continue reading N.Y. School Boards executive director: Rockefeller Institute has been ‘transparent’ on Foundation Aid formula update

East Ramapo: 2 state bills offer extra money, but take different approaches to oversight

Assemblyman Ken Zebrowski’s bill, A.10407, proposes placing the East Ramapo school district under a fiscal control board, while Senator Shelley Mayer’s bill, S.9833, introduces a community liaison and a $20 million state aid advance. Both bills would offer a $20 million advance on state aid for the district, but Mayer’s bill stipulates that if the … Continue reading East Ramapo: 2 state bills offer extra money, but take different approaches to oversight

Who’s endorsing Jamaal Bowman and George Latimer?

In the highly contested Democratic primary for New York’s 16th Congressional District, incumbent Rep. Jamaal Bowman is challenged by Westchester County Executive George Latimer. This race, endorsed by the Alliance for Quality Education, underscores significant issues such as foreign policy and education funding, with implications for the district spanning from the Bronx to Westchester County. … Continue reading Who’s endorsing Jamaal Bowman and George Latimer?

How New York’s mayoral control deal got done

Mayor Eric Adams faced potential loss of control over NYC schools, but a last-minute deal extended mayoral control for two more years, shorter than desired. Concessions were made, diminishing Adams’ power over a panel and requiring more compliance with class-size laws. Despite setbacks, the deal averted worse outcomes and allowed Adams to focus on other … Continue reading How New York’s mayoral control deal got done

A mayoral control renewal is looming

Negotiations over the extension of mayoral control over NYC public schools intensify as Governor Hochul advocates for its continuation; meanwhile, the SED’s report adds complexity to the debate with calls for reforms. Lawmakers and educators face questions regarding accountability and effectiveness as the June expiration deadline approaches. Read the full article.