Nassau Standard

In recent years, the New York State education system has grappled with issues of fairness and adequacy in its funding formulas. As a member of the State Education Committee, I am acutely aware of the challenges our schools face and the pressing need for reform. The restoration of hold-harmless funding for schools is a step in the right direction, but much work remains to be done to ensure that every child in New York receives the quality education they deserve.

Hold harmless funding, which guarantees that no district will receive less aid than in the previous year, is a crucial safety net. This restoration provides temporary relief, but it should not be mistaken for a long-term solution. To truly address the disparities and inefficiencies in our school funding system, we must look deeper.

The ongoing foundation aid study by the Rockefeller Institute, while promising, will not yield binding recommendations, and so it is imperative that we proactively address critical issues within our funding formulas. Several key areas need urgent attention:

Addressing these issues is not merely an administrative task; it is a moral imperative. Every child in New York deserves a fair shot at success, regardless of their background or the district in which they live. As your representative, I am committed to championing these reforms and working towards a more equitable and effective school funding system. Our children’s future depends on it.