I believe that a strong education system paves the path to opportunity for our children. That’s why, here in New York State, we’re investing more in education than ever before.
The 2016-17 state budget increases education aid to $24.8 billion – making it the largest single investment in education in New York’s history. That’s a 6.5 percent increase in school aid from last year – and nearly 27 percent from Fiscal Year 2012.
But not only are we investing at a record level, we’re ending the Gap Elimination Adjustment this year, and making strategic investments that will transform our schools and make the system even stronger for our children.
Click here to learn more about the complete 2016-17 State Budget.
Other crucial education investments that are supported by the state budget include:
- $400 million to continue our $1.5 billion five-year commitment for full-day pre-K – as well as a new $22 million to expand pre-K for three year olds, because we know that children benefit for years to come when their education starts early
- $175 million to transform failing and high needs schools into community schools, with additional services to better address issues of poverty and ensure that every student is prepared, safe, healthy and ready to learn
- Increased support for charter schools, by an estimated $430 per pupil to help these schools continue to innovate and recruit high-quality teachers and staff