Mayor Eric Adams announced plans to include $167 million in his executive budget to restore and baseline funding for special education pre-K and expanded 3-K seats, while also pledging to maintain Head Start programs regardless of potential federal cuts. Advocates say the move is a step forward but stress that more funding is needed, as … Continue reading Adams to add funding for special education pre-K and expanded 3-K seats to budget plan
Governor Hochul must do right by working families and invest in child care now
Advocates are calling on New York lawmakers to invest no less than $500 million in the Child Care Assistance Program and at least another $500 million to create a permanent fund for early childhood educator pay. Without urgent action, thousands of families could lose access to child care within weeks, and the ongoing staffing crisis … Continue reading Governor Hochul must do right by working families and invest in child care now
Teachers Unions, State Officials Urging Families To Fight Back Against Federal Education Cuts
At a recent rally, we raised our voices in coalition against proposed federal cuts to vital programs like Title 1 and IDEA. These cuts, which threaten to underfund critical resources for lower-income students and those with disabilities, would have devastating effects on communities across the country. Such cuts would leave schools scrambling, stretching educators thin … Continue reading Teachers Unions, State Officials Urging Families To Fight Back Against Federal Education Cuts
NYC school funding fight: Hochul’s budget plan faces pushback over $350 million shortfall
New York state lawmakers are pushing back against Governor Kathy Hochul’s proposal to reduce funding for New York City schools by $350 million, which stems from a change to the state’s Foundation Aid formula. Referencing AQE’s latest report, “Getting the Foundation Aid Formula Right,” this article presents our argument that the Governor’s proposal doesn’t go … Continue reading NYC school funding fight: Hochul’s budget plan faces pushback over $350 million shortfall
AQE Responds to Trump’s Attempt to Close the Department of Education
AQE’s response to Trump’s executive order to close the Department of Education was published in Public. We condemned the President’s move as part of a broader agenda to dismantle public institutions and called on Congress and New York leaders to protect vulnerable students and schools. Read the full statement.
NYC school leaders tight-lipped on contingency plans amid threats of federal funding cuts
New York City’s public school system is grappling with potential cuts to both federal and state funding, including a proposed reduction of $350 million in Foundation Aid under Governor Hochul’s plan. While federal funding, particularly Title I, plays a crucial role in supporting schools with high concentrations of poverty, the uncertainty around these funding streams … Continue reading NYC school leaders tight-lipped on contingency plans amid threats of federal funding cuts
Trump to sign order Thursday aimed at eliminating Education Department
President Trump is set to sign an executive order aimed at dismantling the U.S. Department of Education, fulfilling a key campaign promise. While the order directs his education secretary to begin the process, the department cannot be fully eliminated without congressional action. This move is expected to face legal challenges, and the department will continue … Continue reading Trump to sign order Thursday aimed at eliminating Education Department
Manhattan march sees thousands enraged by Medicaid cuts and federal layoffs: ‘They’re killing people’
On March 15, we marched with a coalition of labor unions, political groups, and community organizations in protest of proposed cuts to essential programs like education, Medicaid, and housing. Protesters condemned the $330 billion in education cuts in the Republican budget resolution, warning that such reductions would harm students and families, particularly those from vulnerable … Continue reading Manhattan march sees thousands enraged by Medicaid cuts and federal layoffs: ‘They’re killing people’
New Yorkers rally against possible Trump cuts to vital programs
On March 15, New Yorkers rallied in Manhattan to protest the Trump administration’s proposed cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security, with concerns that education funding would also be impacted. Protesters criticized the administration for prioritizing tax cuts for the wealthy while threatening vital services for low-income families. Read the full article.
Top NYC schools officials warn Trump’s Education Department cuts could harm most vulnerable students
New York City public school leaders are expressing concern over potential cuts to federal funding, including a reduction in an $8.4 million food program that helps schools purchase from local producers. While federal funding makes up only about 5% of the city’s budget, it supports vital programs for vulnerable students, such as those with disabilities … Continue reading Top NYC schools officials warn Trump’s Education Department cuts could harm most vulnerable students