In New York, Foundation Aid determines what each school district’s share is of state education funding. The formula for Foundation Aid was created in 2007. It is supposed to make sure all students get enough funding and takes into account special education needs and poverty rates. 

Even though it was designed to be fair, the Foundation Aid formula needs updating. It no long reflects current education costs and student needs. Governor Hochul has tasked the Rockefeller Institute with evaluating the formula for who well it ensures all New York students get a “sound basic education.”

Your voice is crucial in the fight for districts to get what students need. The Rockefeller Institute must hear from parents, students, and educators, especially in districts without public hearings like Rochester, Syracuse, Yonkers and more. Your input will inform the institute’s final report that will make nonbinding recommendations to the Governor on potential revisions to the State on changing the current formula. It’s likely that these recommendations will factor into the Governor’s education budget proposal for the next fiscal year.