State Senator Kevin Parker Calls on Governor Cuomo to Invest More In Public Schools Education

Albany, NY (3-2-17) – State Senator Kevin Parker has been joined by several of his colleagues in government in calling on Governor Cuomo for a renewed commitment to Foundation Aid and the Campaign for Fiscal Equity (CFE.) The request was outlined in a letter to the Governor co-signed by several Senate Democrats. Senator Parker made the call for an additional $4.3 billion dollars over a three-year phase in period for New York public schools. The requested amount will ensure more resources are allocated to schools throughout New York State, specifically making improvements in low performing schools districts.  

Urging the Governor to be reminded of the need for the Empire State to invest adequately in our children’s future, Senator Parker said that the 4.3 billion increase will begin to ensure a “sound basic education” for New York State public school students.

“Although we have had increases to our education system budget over the years it has not been nearly enough. Our students have seen a significant decrease in their extra-curricular programming, in addition to their arts and music curriculum. We have also seen eliminations to supportive school staff such as guidance counselors, social workers, and librarians. This is unacceptable and we can no longer continue to cut into our students’ education."

The Campaign for Fiscal Equity (CFE) lawsuit, first filed in 1993, was an effort to ensure that New York City’s high-needs schools would finally receive the funding they need to provide students with a sound, basic education.

“We have to continue to fund Foundation Aid to satisfy our commitment to the Campaign For Fiscal Equity (CFE), and make the proper investments needed to empower children in all communities throughout New York State,” Senator Parker said, adding, “Our failure to do so hurts our children. But it also hurts the State’s and the city’s economy when we fail to provide students with the tools they need to graduate, pursue higher education and successful careers. If we invest in our children and give them the resources they need to achieve and succeed today, we will strengthen our democracy for future generations.”

About State Senator Kevin Parker

Senator Parker, a lifelong Brooklyn resident, serves 318,000 ethnically diverse Brooklyn constituents in Flatbush, East Flatbush, Midwood, Ditmas Park, Kensington, Windsor Terrace, and Park Slope. He is the Ranking Democratic Member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Telecommunications, and the Committee on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse. He currently serves as the Democratic Whip for the New York State Senate Democratic Conference, as well as Assistant Democratic Leader for Intergovernmental Affairs, and the founder and Chair of the Senate Democratic Task Force on New Americans.  For more information on Senator Parker, please visit www.nysenate.gov/senators/kevin-s-park