Key Education Priorities Enacted in State Budget

SAANYS is pleased to see key education priorities in the enacted state budget.

SAANYS is particularly supportive of the restoration of full funding for Foundation Aid based on the statutory formula. The increase of $34.5 billion will support schools as they continue to experience post-pandemic challenges and work to meet increased student needs.

SAANYS was part of a coalition that strongly supported funding for universal school meals. SAANYS and its members are also very grateful that the enacted budget provides increased funding toward this goal and we look forward to continued work in this area. Additional funding for prekindergarten, PTECH, and early college programs will also be critical to rebuilding a strong P-16 educational system.

It is also our understanding that funding for professional learning for school building leaders was included in the enacted budget, and SAANYS is thankful to see continued support for school principals and other administrators who work tirelessly to provide the necessary programs and services needed to support our students.

Details from the Governor’s Press Announcement:

Supporting Students and Schools

All New York students deserve a high-quality education, from prekindergarten through college. Governor Hochul included a record $34.5 billion in total School Aid for school year 2024, making the highest level of State aid ever, and also secured the reissuance of 22 charter schools. The Budget also includes significant investments for SUNY’s Transformation and CUNY’s Strategic Needs.

Funding for education includes:

  • $24 billion for Foundation Aid — a $2.6 billion increase from last year – to deliver on Governor Hochul’s promise to fully fund Foundation Aid for the first time in history.
  • $150 million expanding prekindergarten to 20,000 children across the state, bringing the State’s annual investment to more than $1.2 billion.
  • $134 million to increase access to free school meals.
  • $20 million for Early College High School and Pathways in Technology Early College High School funding to allow students to earn college credits in high school, prioritizing students in high-need school districts.
  • $2.4 billion in new funding for SUNY and CUNY capital projects to upgrade campus facilities and make strategic investments to support innovation and the growth of both systems.
  • $381 million in new operating support for SUNY and CUNY campuses.
  • $500 million to create the first-ever New York State matching fund for contributions made to the endowments of SUNY’s four university centers.

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