The Contracts for Excellence, part of the historic 2007 education reform, were created to tie foundation aid (basic classroom operating aid)
funding to the best educational practices.
Budget 2009-10: Contract for Excellence
The Contract for Excellence accountability was kept intact in the enacted 2009-10 budget, despite the fact that there is no increase in foundation aid (basic classroom operating aid) for the current year and none planned for next year. All 32 school districts under the Contract for Excellence are required to maintain funding at the 2008-09 levels. While it is unclear whether school districts will be required to go through the public participation process again, it is clear that they will have to submit a Contract showing their money allocations to programs and schools. There will be no increases to foundation aid created by the historic statewide education reform of 2007 which in turn fuels the Contract for Excellence until 2011 when payments resume adjusting funding for inflation. This expands the four-year promise to seven years.
This year we also had a significant change at the Board of Regents and the Department of Education. We now have a new Chancellor, Dr. Merryl Tisch former Vice Chancellor, and Vice Chancellor, Dr. Milton Cofield. The current Commissioner of Education announced his retirement which will be effective this summer.
AQE will work to continue to strengthen its relationship with both the State Education Department and the Board of Regents, as well as the state government and the legislature to bring the concerns of parents and community members regarding accountability, equity, and achievement to these bodies. We are committed to advocating for a more efficient and effective accountability system in New York State, one that is based on equity, access, adequacy, and efficiency.
On Monday July 28th, 2008 over 100 parents, students, education advocates and community organizations from across the state organized by the
To view the demonstration INSIDE the Regent's meeting CLICK HERE. Be sure to view the beginning of the video as well as from 36:30 until the end to hear our board members speak who were invited back inside the room.
REPORT: Contracts for Excellence Year Two: Will Accountability be Enforced?
Click here to learn more about Contracts for Excellence
View your district's 2007-08 & 2008-09 Contract
Know Your Rights (Spanish)
Report: Contracts for Excellence Year One: REVIEW
Public Participation
Our Voices Count!
