2012-13 Budget Increases School Aid by $805 Million

Assemblyman Ken Zebrowski (D-New City) announced the Assembly has reached an agreement on an on-time 2012-13 state budget that includes increased funding for both school districts and higher education at a time when many local municipalities are struggling (A.9057-D).

“This budget signifies a commitment to education by the state,” Assemblyman Zebrowski said. “I fought to make sure our schools got the support they deserved this year, reducing the tax burden on the hardworking families of Rockland County.”

Local School aid increases:

  • Clarkstown Central School District: $1,323,795 an increase of 6.13%
  • Nanuet Union Free School District: $262,941 an increase of 5.12%
  • Nyack Public Schools: $297,844 an increase of 4.28%
  • East Ramapo Central School District: $2,301,674 an increase of 4.83%
  • North Rockland Central School District: $2,731,598 an increase of 7.17%

Compared to last year’s budget, general support for public schools increased by $805 million and funding increased $751 million. The legislature reallocated $200 million from the proposed competitive grants to Foundation aid, ensuring all districts are eligible for the funding.

“Adequate state funding means a better education for the students of Rockland County,” Assemblyman Zebrowski said. “When it comes to the future success of Rockland County, there is no substitute for a high-quality education for our young people.”

The final budget increases support to $2,272 per-FTE student for a total of $22.1 million for SUNY community colleges. Rockland Community College and its estimated 7,092 FTE’s will see an increase of over $1 million in funding for the next academic year.

“Every Rockland County resident deserves the chance to receive a college degree,” Assemblyman Zebrowski said. “The increases to community college base aid will make attending Rockland more affordable, keeping the dream of college education alive for the working families in our community.”