Schools

Farmingdale Delegation Advocates for District in Albany

District's Legislative Action Committee meets with Montesano.

Twenty-four members of Farmingdale’s Legislative Action Committee visited Albany recently to advocate for the school district.

The panel, including students, faculty, residents and members of the Board of Education met with State Assemblyman Michael Montesano, sharing concerns about the need for state education funding and other issues related to employee benefits.

“The visit to the state capitol was a tremendous opportunity to learn about governmental processes first hand,” said John Lorentz, Farmingdale Schools superintendent.  “It gave our students an opportunity to share their ideas with legislators who would consider their suggestions.” 

The representatives urged state officials to restore high-tax aid to the 2012-13 funding levels. Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s recent proposal calls for a reduction of $1.4 million in high-tax aid to the Farmingdale School District and a $37 million reduction in total high tax aid to all Long Island school districts.

Among the topics discussed with Montesano, R-Glen Head, and other legislators was the use of the Employee Benefits Accrued Liability Reserve fund. The committee suggested that school districts be permitted to use these reserves as a way to offset state aid reductions.

Committee members also addressed the potential impact that charter schools have on public school funding. The committee asked that the funding of public schools never be compromised or affected unfavorably because of funding for charter schools.

The district's vote on its proposed 2013-2014 budget is Tuesday, May 21, at the Howitt Middle School East Gymnasium from 6 a.m. – 9 p.m.

For more information visit the District’s website at www.farmingdaleschools.org.



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