Hi John,

We’re looking ahead, as we have a real chance to change the future of public education in New York. With a new administration coming in, we need to make sure that every child, no matter where they live or what their background might entail, gets the education they need to become thriving New Yorkers.

Here’s what we’re fighting for and why it matters:

• Fully Fund Our Schools + Fix the Foundation Aid Formula
  The Foundation Aid formula, which decides how much funding our schools get, hasn’t been updated in over 20 years. It’s not enough to meet the needs of today’s students, especially those facing housing instability, large special education populations, and numerous other challenges. We are calling for an updated formula that fully funds schools without cutting any existing funding. The governor has the chance to make public education a real priority and ensure that all kids, especially Black, brown, immigrant, LGBTQIA+, and lower-income children, get the resources they need to succeed. If we don’t act, these kids will continue to be left behind.

• End Jim Crow Education in East Ramapo
  East Ramapo needs more than just funding - it needs fair governance. For years, a school board has failed to serve its students, particularly its Black and Latinx children. We’re calling for reforms to ensure these families have a voice and every child gets a quality education. These students are being denied their constitutional right to a good education. It’s time to change that.

• The Solutions Not Suspensions Bill (S1040B)
  This bill would require schools to use proven alternatives to suspensions that address misbehavior and keep kids in the classroom. We’re calling for at least $5 million in the state budget for educator training on these strategies, to ensure that all students, particularly Black, brown, and LGBTQIA+ youth, have the support they need to succeed. It’s time to shift away from punitive discipline and invest in solutions that keep kids engaged in their education.
  
  

Join us for AQE Advocacy Day on 4 February 2025. This is your chance to speak up, meet with your elected officials, and demand the changes our schools need. Your voice matters. Together, we can make a real difference in the lives of future generations of New Yorkers. Let's make 2025 the year we finally secure an equitable and sustainable future for all of New York’s children. 

In solidarity,