When our kids get a good education, they can go out into the world ready for success. That’s why I’ve always made it a top priority to get our schools the resources they need to provide a top-notch education. This year, I helped pass the Assembly’s 2015-16 Families First state budget proposal, which would dramatically increase school funding so that our kids can get the quality education they deserve. The plan provides a total of $23.95 billion for education, a $1.8 billion increase over last year and the largest increase in school aid since 2008-09 (E.203).

Not only does the Assembly plan restore much-needed funding to schools, it also addresses the educational challenges faced by youth in foster care. Last year, I had the pleasure of meeting a group of foster children who shared their stories with me. These kids don’t have many of the opportunities that other students do, and more must be done to meet their needs and help them get a good education so they can go on to future success. That’s why I fought to include $1.5 million for a foster youth college initiative that would help foster kids attend college, learn real-world job skills and find good jobs.

The Assembly plan also expands access to universal pre-kindergarten (UPK) programs, providing an additional $80 million in funding for a total of $835 million for UPK programs. Universal pre-kindergarten gives our kids a head start on their education while providing families with affordable childcare.

Additionally, the Assembly budget plan does more for students with disabilities. As the father of a child with disabilities, I know firsthand how important it is to ensure that the needs of these students are met in the classroom. That’s why I helped craft a proposal that includes $20 million for special act school districts for the disabled, blind and deaf. I’ll also continue to advocate for more funding for special education programs to help children with developmental disabilities and delays get individualized attention and the quality education they deserve.

All students deserve a good education. Making sure that our schools get their fair share of funding, and that students with additional challenges are given the support they need, will continue to be a top priority for me. As always, if you have any questions or concerns about this or any other community issue, please don’t hesitate to contact my office at StirpeA@assembly.state.ny.us or 315-452-1115.