A coalition of New York education groups are requesting a multi-billion state aid increase for the 2019-20 fiscal year.
The New York State Educational Conference Board on Thursday called for a $2.2 billion state aid hike. The proposed increase includes $1.31 billion for foundation aid, which is the base funding for school districts, and $400 million for expense-based reimbursements. The board also requested $500 million in funding for support services, school safety and other education-related priorities.
The Educational Conference Board consists of six organizations, including New York State United Teachers, the state’s leading teachers’ union, and the New York State School Boards Association.
A $2.2 billion aid increase, the Educational Conference Board contends, would help school districts fund existing programs and respond to the needs of students.
The board noted that over the past decade, the number of students receiving free and reduced lunch rose by 15 percent, and the number of English language learners increased by 18 percent. There are 14 percent more students with disabilities.
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