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.