Dear John,

Save the date to join us for our 2024 Education Advocacy Day in Albany on January 23. Remembering it should be easy - it's as easy as 1-2-3!

At AQE, we're unwavering in our commitment to educational equity for all New York students. Our 2024 priorities reflect that commitment, and we invite you to be a driving force for that change in the new year!

Our annual Advocacy Day is your chance to make a real impact. We are organizing buses to travel to Albany for parent leaders, students, and advocates across the state to rally and meet with decision makers to advocate for our critical priorities in 2024. Together, we will make sure that our voices are heard loud and clear: public education is the cornerstone of our state. Every Black, Latinx, immigrant, and low-income child and student is worth the investment. Mark your calendars and sign-up to attend!

Our advocacy priorities include: 

1. Update the Foundation Aid Formula
   It's time for a fresh look at the Foundation Aid formula to accurately represent the current cost of educating our students. We're pushing for a new costing study and formula update to emphasize equity and inclusivity, ensuring fair distribution cross state.
   
   
2. Fund Student Needs, Prevent Cuts
   

   Federal COVID-19 funding is set to expire, and we're dedicated to ensuring that students’ needs are met and the programs and services addressing those needs continue. We are committed to preventing any funding gaps in our school districts, safeguarding vital programs, services, and staff. 
   
   

3. Advance Universal Childcare
   

   We're investing in our child care educators and providers, working towards stability and continuity in learning for all children. In the new year, we need a permanent, robustly-funded program to support our child care workforce and ensure equitable access. 
   
   

4. Invest in Full Day Pre-K

   Our goal is to focus on increasing rates for early adopter school districts of Universal Pre-K, providing adequate funding for quality programs, and ensuring equitable distribution to all community-based organizations. 
   
   

5. Tax the Ultra Rich, Invest in Our New York
   

   We support raising revenue to invest in children and families by making the ultra wealthy pay a little more to invest in public education, childcare, and essential services.
   
   

6. A Positive School Climate
   

   We remain committed to ending the school-to-prison pipeline with investments in community schools, culturally responsive education, and solutions that build trust and positive relationships. 

Will you join us at the Albany state capitol on 1/23 to amplify these critical demands?

Your continued support and dedication to our mission are deeply appreciated. Together, we can make a difference and ensure a brighter future for New York students. Thank you for being an essential part of this journey.