New York City’s schools chancellor addressed City Council concerns over budget cuts, hinting at potential reversals in reductions to early childhood education funding amidst better-than-expected tax revenue projections. He emphasized challenges ahead, including the need to address class size mandates and the looming expiration of federal stimulus funds, warning of inevitable “trade-offs” without additional funding support. The council’s involvement in prioritizing programs and navigating limited resources was encouraged by the chancellor, particularly where it comes to maintaining essential services.