Budget cuts cause concern for New York school districts

CAPITAL REGION, N.Y. ( WTEN ) — Does the New York Governor’s new equation for school funding add up? Some Capital Region school districts say no.

Two area school districts plan to inform their communities tonight on next year’s budget. The Berlin and Salem school districts are two of hundreds predicted to face adversity if Governor Hochul’s proposal to change the equation for foundation aid funding goes through.

“Learn this about me. I do not accept the status quo just because it is easier. I do not mind shaking things up and asking the hard questions. Why, are we still following a formula that has been in place since 2008?” asked Hochul.

Many districts fear the change will mean cuts to budgets, catching leaders off guard. “Governor Hochul did follow through on her commitment to fully fund Foundation Aid. So, that is a positive, but that is also one reason why the cuts this year were surprising and alarming to many school leaders,” said Robert Lowry, Deputy Director of the New York State Council of School Superintendents. “I believe that the primary reason for the school aid Cuts was concerned about the overall state financial outlook,” continued Lowry.

Whatever the reason, Lake George Central School District is worried. “It is going to negatively impact students. There is no way around it,” said Superintendent John Luthringer. Luthringer has a solution in mind. “I really think they need to look at the formula and look to adjust that. And bring districts to the table so they can hear our stories,” said Luthringer.

Berlin and Salem school districts sent letters to parents telling them the proposed formula results in funding cuts between almost $800,000 to more than a million dollars. “If not rectified, it will negatively impact our students, the school, and our community for generations to come,” said Dr. Maureen Long, Berlin Central School District Superintendent.

In Salem, Superintendent Julie Adams says, “We will be faced with the challenging task of reducing the number of teachers and staff positions for the next school year.”

The proposed change in the school funding equation has to be worked out in state budget negotiations. That budget is due April 1. That gives school districts just over a month to finalize their own budgets by the May 7 deadline.

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