![Senator Headshot](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_small/public/senator_helming_headshot_2022_1.jpg?itok=bP2gpWR-)
Helming, Phillips Join to Call on Governor to Increase Education Funding
September 25, 2019
![](/sites/default/files/styles/760x377/public/press-release/main-image/img_6104.jpg?itok=oRxmoxKn)
Senator Pam Helming and Ian Phillips, school board member of Auburn Central School District and NYSUT’s Regional Political Organizer, recently joined local students and parents to call for increased funding in the Governor’s budget for the Auburn Central School District. Senator Helming hosted Mr. Phillips to discuss how they can work together to advocate on behalf of Auburn students and teachers.
“I agree with Ian and the advocates who came to meet with me. The budget that was passed this year by the two downstate led majorities and approved by Governor Cuomo, shortchanges many upstate schools. One of the many reasons I voted against this disastrous budget was because of the toll it would take on Auburn’s students and teachers. That is why it is critical that we restore balance to the funding process and I will continue to work with Senate Education Committee Chairwoman Shelly Mayer and will continue to advocate on Auburn's behalf on this important issue. It is such a positive that so many educators, students, and parents are joining together to support me in the effort to achieve fair and equitable funding for Auburn. This is not a Democrat or Republican problem, it is an issue that impacts the future of our entire community,” said Senator Pam Helming.
Senator Helming has been a strong advocate on Auburn's behalf. She was successful in securing additional funds for the district and facilitated a meeting between district staff and key decision makers, including the Senate Education Committee Chairwoman, Senator Shelly Mayer.