A Push for Adequate Funding Ahead of 2021-2022 School Year

PORT WASHINGTON, NEW YORK (MARCH 2021)—As a result of the pandemic, it’s no secret that school districts statewide have faced significant financial burdens. The Port Washington School District’s COVID-19 expenses for the current school year have already amounted to nearly $3 million in excess of the initial budget. The School Board and Administration are proactively calling on local officials to discuss important issues such as 2021-2022 proposed state aid, financial support for mental health and support services, and answers to adequately prepare for the safe reopening of schools next year

“As a district, we are committed to fighting for our students, our leaders of tomorrow, to provide the educational opportunities and experiences that they deserve - they should not have to bear the brunt of our state’s struggle to balance its budget,” said Dr. Michael Hynes, superintendent of schools. “We are grateful to have the support of our local officials as we continue this fight.”

Earlier this month, Port’s Legislative Task Force facilitated meetings with Senator Anna Kaplan and Assemblywoman Gina Silitti. Several aspects of the 2021-2022 proposed budget were discussed including the fact that Foundation Aid remained unchanged from last year and reimbursable expenses were categorized under “services aid” which may leave the district with a shortfall for those expenses in the future. This coupled with the federal stimulus aid, which supplements but does not supplant years of shortfalls, continues to leave Port advocating for funding. As part of that advocacy, the task force submitted close to 2,500 community signatures supporting “Port’s Fair Share of School Funding” campaign.

Additionally, Port’s Legislative Task Force discussed the digital divide, a continued expense that drives at the heart of making sure equity in education is provided; the need for increased mental health services; and stressed the importance of receiving 2021-2022 reopening guidance from the State before this year’s budget vote to allow the district to plan accordingly.

In advocating for its fair share of state funding, board members, community members and administration officials are committed to continuing the dialogue with its local, state and federal representatives. The task force will be meeting with Nassau County Legislator Delia Deriggi Whitton and Congressman Tom Suozzi next.

For more information about the Port Washington Union Free School District, please visit the district’s website atwww.portnet.org and ‘like’ our Facebook page: @PortWashSchools.