Seward Pledges Support For Student Resolution

HERKIMER, 03/09/15 -- State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) met recently with Herkimer High School Freshman Class President Nicholaus Stallman to discuss education.

“In short order the state senate will adopt its own budget resolution for fiscal year 2015-16, with an eye toward completing work on the state budget by the April 1 deadline,” said Senator Seward.  “My visit with Nicholaus was timely and helped illustrate just how important the state budget is for our students and their future.”

Stallman presented Senator Seward with a special resolution written and adopted by students from Herkimer and Utica school districts at the recent Mohawk Valley Student Summit 2015.

The resolution calls upon the legislature and governor to uphold the provisions of the New York State Constitution and fully fund public schools.  It also points out that New York owes Mohawk Valley schools more than $133 million in Foundation Aid and Gap Elimination Adjustment (GEA) funding.

“One of my prime goals, which is shared by members of the Senate Majority conference, is to put to rest the Gap Elimination Adjustment (GEA) which has been a major financial burden for all of the schools in my district.  Extinguishing the GEA will free up local resources for classroom instruction and quality programs while relieving some of the property tax burden shouldered by homeowners,” Seward added.

Stallman also pointed out that while many wealthier school districts offer a number of elective education courses, many area schools are struggling to offer even the most basic subjects.

“Students from low-wealth areas are often left with fewer curriculum opportunities leaving them at a distinct disadvantage.  We must make sure our students have the tools they need to succeed in the classroom and thrive after graduation.  I have fought consistently for fair distribution of state education aid to help guarantee that a New York State education is a New York State education, no matter where the school is located,” Seward concluded.

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Photo caption:  Senator Seward and Herkimer High School Freshmen Class President Nicholaus Stallman review a copy of the student resolution adopted at the Mohawk Valley Student Summit 2015.