Assemblymember Victor Pichardo announced that the Assembly’s budget proposal provides needed funding for education, with a total of $25.4 billion going toward general support for public schools, an increase of $2.1 billion, as well as a significant investment in our public colleges - including a 20 percent increase to support opportunity programs. Additionally, the New York State DREAM Act was included in the Assembly’s plan, which will support eligible immigrant students for tuition assistance, scholarships and opportunity programs.
“We must provide the resources and support our students need to reach their full potential,” said Pichardo. “I’ll continue fighting for students at all levels to ensure our schools can provide a quality education, particularly for those students who are most at risk.”
This year’s budget plan calls for an increase of $1.1 billion in Foundation Aid, which is $875 million over the governor’s budget proposal. This reflects the Assembly’s commitment to fulfill the obligations set down by the Campaign for Fiscal Equality court decision and to provide every child with a quality education, noted Pichardo.
The Assembly’s budget also funds the implementation of My Brother’s Keeper, a program to support and encourage education and employment opportunities for boys and young men of color. $50 million is allocated to this program, with $8 million going toward programs in higher education. This would provide funding for family and community engagement programs, professional development and the development of exemplary school models and practices, as well as programs addressing racial disparities and restorative justice.
Other highlights of the Assembly’s budget include:
· $14.3 million in full restorations for Teacher Resources and Computer Training Centers;
· $10 million for schools with growing enrollment of English-language learners, as well as $1 million for bilingual services;
· $10 million in grants for services for homeless students; and
· an extension of mayoral control by seven years, to June 2023.
The 2016-17 Assembly budget also increases funding for CUNY; it rejects the governor’s plan to shift some of the financial burden of CUNY operating costs to New York City and rejects tuition hikes. Further, the budget includes an increase in capital assistance for CUNY and increases base operating aid for community colleges.
“Higher education should never be out of reach for my neighbors, their children and for generations after, nor should it force them to be swimming in debt when they complete their degree,” said Pichardo. “Investing in public schools and universities is critical for our future.”
