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
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
School, library votes set for Tuesday in New York communities
New York voters are set to decide on school and library budgets, school board members, and various propositions. Budget proposals widely with numerous candidates emphasizing the need for increased resources to meet student needs. Voting hours vary by district, but polls are generally open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Read the full article.
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?
Hochul wanted to cut school aid in her budget. NY lawmakers are pushing to restore it.
A summary of one house proposals this week, where state lawmakers proposed to fully restore funding and provide 3% increases for New York school districts facing cuts under Governor Hochul’s budget. AQE applauds this move, as it prioritizes student support as they continue bouncing back from the global pandemic. Read the full article.
What organizations, lawmakers and lobbyists are saying about the NY legislature’s budgets
A collation of remarks from numerous statewide advocacy groups, including AQE and the Empires State Campaign for Child Care on the legislature’s budget proposal, which featured numerous counter proposals to Governor Hochul’s Executive FY2025 Budget. Read the full article.
Eric Adams cancels new round of budget cuts, but fiscal cliff for NYC schools looms
New York City’s Education Department avoids additional spring budget cuts, but the school system faces the potential loss of hundreds of millions in expiring federal aid by summer unless swift action is taken by city and state officials. Advocates warn of proposed cuts, including social workers, school budgets, and an expanded preschool program, jeopardizing support … Continue reading Eric Adams cancels new round of budget cuts, but fiscal cliff for NYC schools looms
AQE Announced Executive Directors
The Alliance for Quality Education announced that Zakiyah Shaakir-Ansari and Marina Marcou-O’Malley will officially take over as executive directors. The duo served in their positions on an interim basis since November, when former executive director Jasmine Gripper moved to head the Working Families Party. The two have been in Albany this session advocating for a … Continue reading AQE Announced Executive Directors
Gov. Hochul’s proposed Foundation Aid budget cuts and the impact on New York State schools
Governor Hochul’s executive budget proposal slashes promised Foundation Aid, jeopardizing our students’ futures. Around 44% of NY schools face cuts. Learn more by listening as our Interim Co-Executive Director Marina Marcou-O’Malley discusses these changes on the Talk Out of School podcast. Listen to the podcast.
NYSUT and partners launch One-in-Five campaign to combat cycle of childhood poverty
The One-in-Five coalition, consisting of NYSUT and a coalition of stakeholders, is advocating for legislative measures to address childhood poverty in the state, including the Working Families Tax Credit, Mothers and Lasting Change, support for Medicaid services in schools, affordable housing, universal school meals, and $100 million in categorical funding for community schools. AQE’s Marina … Continue reading NYSUT and partners launch One-in-Five campaign to combat cycle of childhood poverty