SLATER CELEBRATES FOUNDATION AID INCREASE, REGIONAL COST INDEX BOOST IN STATE BUDGET

Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown) in the Assembly Chamber.

A staunch advocate for equitable school funding in Westchester, Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown) is proud to report that increases in Foundation Aid, along with changes to the Regional Cost Index are coming to our kids’ schools this next fiscal year. A 2% minimum increase in Foundation Aid coupled with an overall boost in the Regional Cost Index is slated to drive an increase in funding into local public schools, directing more resources for teachers to utilize in classes, and more opportunities for after-school programs to enhance our kids’ lives. Schools will also be able to provide universal free school lunches for all students.

“It’s an incredibly important victory for our schools and our kids, because while increased funding isn’t the sole solution for our students to find success in school, the commitment of these funds makes the job of learning and teaching significantly easier on students and teachers, respectively,” said Slater. “The wins of this year’s education investment plan should be celebrated because they will provide much-needed stability for educators and students alike.” 

Slater notes that the victory would not have been possible without the collaboration of Westchester school superintendents. The on-the-ground expertise and feedback provided by education professionals guided the investment to where funding was most critically needed. Now, thousands of students and teachers are ready to reap the benefits.

“Kids deserve a safe, clean environment to learn in. Studies consistently show that when students are fed, comfortable and supported by their schools, they excel in their studies. Breakfast and lunch offered free to all students, additional funding for educators to supply their classrooms with and a cushion of investment that administrators can use to maintain staff and school facilities are critical for the students’ development and growth. I’m immensely proud to have supported these measures in this year’s budget, and I’m incredibly grateful for the guidance and support that Westchester superintendents and advocates gave me as we delivered on this important package,” Slater concluded.

Lakeland Central School District Superintendent Dr. Karen Gagliardi said, “We are grateful to Assemblyman Slater and our Westchester legislative partners for their support in strengthening the Foundation Aid formula and advancing policies that reflect the needs of today’s students. These critical investments will enable Lakeland Central School District to enhance instructional programs, support targeted interventions, and maintain safe and welcoming learning environments for all students. Strong state-local collaboration ensures our community can continue preparing young people to thrive in an ever-changing world.”

Interim Superintendent of Somers Central School District Harry LeFevre said, “We appreciate the 2% minimum increase in Foundation Aid and the other adjustments that have been made, but the costs to educate students continue to rise at a rate much greater than 2%. We want to continue to provide incredible opportunities for our students, providing mental health support, and other extra-curricular activities while still being fiscally responsible. Any additional support that the State can provide its taxpayers would be welcomed by all.”