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From Black August to Action: Confronting Systemic Inequities By Embracing Abolition Democracy

This month, as we continue to observe Black August and watch the spectacle of the Democratic National Convention unfold, we are reminded of the deep work still needed to achieve equity across every facet of life. While our work focuses on public education, the racial and economic inequities in New York State’s schools today are … Continue reading From Black August to Action: Confronting Systemic Inequities By Embracing Abolition Democracy

Reflecting on Elain Brown’s Vision this Black August

As we enter the second week of Black August, we honor the courage and sacrifice of those who fought for justice and freedom before us. At AQE, this month is a call to action, urging us to transform our schools and communities with the same resolve that has shaped the Black liberation struggle. Our education … Continue reading Reflecting on Elain Brown’s Vision this Black August

Honoring the Fight for Liberation and Education Justice this Black August

We invite you to join us throughout this month commemorating Black August, a time to honor the legacy of those who fought for freedom and justice before us. Embracing the spirit of Black August, we aim to cultivate what Black August cofounder Mama Ayanna Mashama called “revolutionary consciousness” – a powerful awareness that fuels our … Continue reading Honoring the Fight for Liberation and Education Justice this Black August

AQE Applauds SED Commissioner Rosa’s Key Funding Step for East Ramapo Public Schools

New York City, N.Y. (August 1, 2024) – In response to SED Chancellor Betty Rosa’s decision directing the East Ramapo school board to increase the tax levy for the 2024-2025 fiscal year, the Alliance for Quality Education released the following statement: “AQE applauds Commissioner Betty Rosa’s directive for the East Ramapo school board to increase local taxes … Continue reading AQE Applauds SED Commissioner Rosa’s Key Funding Step for East Ramapo Public Schools

30 years ago, he led a landmark case on NY’s school funding formula. Now he wants it overhauled.

Michael Rebell, the lawyer who led the Campaign for Fiscal Equity’s landmark case, argues that New York’s proposed updates to the Foundation Aid formula are unconstitutional. He believes a full overhaul is necessary to address current educational needs and ensure the state meets its constitutional obligations for equitable funding. Read the full article.

Foundation Aid Hearing Resources

The Rockefeller Institute is currently gathering feedback in order to make nonbinding recommendations on potential revisions to the Foundation Aid formula. Your input through this process will inform their final report, which will make recommendations to the State on modifying the current formula. It’s likely that these recommendations will factor into the Governor’s education budget … Continue reading Foundation Aid Hearing Resources

Advocates Call Out Chancellor Banks’ Dismissal of Class Size Benefits

New York City, N.Y. (July 18, 2024) — In response to Chancellor David Banks’ remarks this past week on Class Size Law and Foundation Aid, education justice organizations, Alliance for Quality Education and the Education Law Center, released the following statement in response: “As reported by the New York Post, on the same day Chancellor … Continue reading Advocates Call Out Chancellor Banks’ Dismissal of Class Size Benefits

Presumptive Eligibility Bill Waits on Governor Hochul

There is another critical piece of legislation that would help break down barriers to child care assistance for families, currently awaiting Governor Hochul’s signature. The presumptive eligibility bill will allow families to access child care assistance while they await processing of their applications. For many families, this would help prevent parents from missing out on job … Continue reading Presumptive Eligibility Bill Waits on Governor Hochul

Formula driving $25 billion in state aid to NY schools finally faces retooling

The Rockefeller Institute’s review of the Foundation Aid formula begins seeking public input starting on July 16, so community is encouraged to provide written or in-person testimony at the upcoming hearings across the state. Advocates and critics alike have long emphasized the need to update metrics to reflect 21st-century educational costs that ensure equity across … Continue reading Formula driving $25 billion in state aid to NY schools finally faces retooling

NYC’s Education Budget and Preparing for the Next Fight

We deeply appreciate the efforts of our city council, particularly the Progressive Caucus, Chair Joseph, and Speaker Adams. They consistently stood in solidarity with a People’s Budget, which aimed to secure essential services that keep New Yorkers safe, housed, and able to meet their basic needs. Last week’s city budget deal included $40 million in … Continue reading NYC’s Education Budget and Preparing for the Next Fight