Assemblywoman Kimberly Jean-Pierre secured $2 million in funding through the state budget for the Amityville Union Free School District (UFSD). This financial injection comes at a critical time for the district, which is navigating an array of financial challenges related to its budget deficit. 

The district has already taken cost cutting measures, but continues to discuss potential avenues for cuts, including the potential closure of Northeast Elementary school. In a recent budget meeting for the community, the potential closure of the school was discussed, highlighting the urgent need for immediate and impactful financial intervention to sustain and preserve the student’s educational environment. 

"In the midst of our efforts to stabilize the financial footing of the Amityville School District, the potential closure of Northeast Elementary school emerged as a dark emblem of the crisis we're facing. This was not just a budgetary line item; it was about the heart of a community and the future of our children," Assemblywoman Jean-Pierre stated. "I would like to acknowledge and thank the State Department of Education for their support and School Superintendent Dr. Gina Talbert who worked tirelessly since her appointment in 2023 to address the challenges faced by the district." 

The news of the concerning budget deficit for the school district was released in the middle of budget negotiations in Albany. Assemblywoman Jean-Pierre took immediate action and ensured $2 million for the district, which could reduce the deficit by almost 50%. The Assemblywoman was already working with Chamber leadership to secure additional resources for the district, following the New York State Comptroller's report earlier this year that the district was facing fiscal distress. 

Senator Monica Martinez stated “I am proud to have worked with my colleague, Assemblymember Kimberly Jean-Pierre to provide the Amityville Union Free School District with a significant boost in state aid to assist in the continuity of funding programs our children rely on and look forward to. As a former educator, I know firsthand the importance of retaining our teachers and ensuring students maintain access to services, AP classes and recreational activities that are foundational to a well-rounded educational experience. I have the utmost confidence and respect for Dr. Talbert, and I look forward to working with her and for the students of the Amityville Union Free School District. I’d like to thank Assemblymember Jean-Pierre for her advocacy, and she will be missed.”

The funding Assemblywoman Jean-Pierre helped secure also saves the pre-kindergarten program and the jobs of 32 teachers. Amityville school district will also receive $29,702,958 in Foundation Aid for next school year, which is a $264,017 increase over this school year.

"Securing this $2 million will keep the doors of the elementary school open and it affirms our commitment to public education and the well-being of our students. The district's current situation is alarming, and I am thankful to Speaker Carl Heastie and my colleagues in the Legislature for supporting my efforts." Assemblywoman Jean-Pierre added. "Our children's future, their education, and their dreams are non-negotiable. We will continue to fight for more resources for Amityville and ensure the district can move forward and thrive."

The funds are earmarked to address the immediate financial needs of the district, ensuring that Northeast School can continue to serve its students without disruption and to cover the salary of the recently hired fiscal consultant.