Overview

• The $254 billion budget, passed after a month-long delay, includes $37.6 billion in school aid, a $1.7 billion increase over last year.
• Updates to the Foundation Aid formula replace outdated poverty data and guarantee a 2% minimum annual increase in school aid.
• New York City schools face a $314 million shortfall compared to the old formula but still gain $539 million overall, bringing total Foundation Aid to $10.46 billion.
• Long Island districts will receive an additional $270 million in aid, reflecting a 5.4% increase, while English Language Learners statewide gain $30 million in targeted funding.
• Advocates criticize the changes for not fully addressing regional cost-of-living differences or adequately supporting high-need students.