On October 22, 2018 at PS 209 in Whitestone, Assemblyman Edward C. Braunstein (D-Bayside) was joined by representatives from local schools, superintendents, and officials from the United Federation of Teachers, and the Council of School Supervisors and Administrators, as he announced a $1,875,000 grant to public schools in his district. The 25 public schools in the 26^th Assembly District will each receive a $75,000 grant for technology; including computers, smart boards, and security cameras through the State and Municipal Facilities Program.  

“I am proud to represent some of the best schools in the city in Northeast Queens,” said Assemblyman Braunstein. “I could not think of a better way to utilize state grants than to invest in our schools. This funding can be used for technology, such as smart boards, laptops, and security cameras, at the discretion of the school principals who know best what resources their students need. Moving forward, I will continue to fight to ensure that New York City schools get the state funding that they deserve.”

“I thank Assemblyman Braunstein for his investments in our Queens public schools, and I look forward to our continued partnerships as we work towards equity and excellence for all our students and families,” said Executive Superintendent Lawrence Pendergast.

“On behalf of the Community Education Council for School District 25, I would like to express our sincere appreciation and gratitude to Assemblyman Edward C. Braunstein for his continued dedication and support towards the schools and students comprising his district,” said Joseph Di Benedetto, President of Community Education Council School District 25. “This wonderful grant will certainly be put to good use, is definitely needed, and is truly appreciated by all those who will share in its benefits.  Assembly District 26, by far, is made up of a group of hardworking, strong achieving students, and we would like to applaud Mr. Braunstein for passionately advocating towards the needs of our schools, and his incredible generosity with this grant. We hope that we can continue to make him proud by showing our students can be the best in the City!”

“We are very appreciative of Assemblyman Edward Braunstein’s never ending support to our schools and community,” said Alan Ong, President of Community District Education Council 26. “Elected officials like Edward understand the struggles and challenges our schools face, and his constant watching out for us plays a major role in making our School District 26 community great. Thank you Assemblyman Braunstein.”

“On behalf of the entire PS 209 community, I would like to thank Assemblyman Braunstein for his continued support of and dedication to the educational needs of our children,” said PS 209 Principal Dr. Mary E. McDonnell.  He is a true supporter of education.  I look forward to many more years of working with Assemblyman Braunstein to support the educational needs of our students.