This funding aims to support the expansion of pre-k as part of the State’s ongoing efforts to promote early education, specifically in high-need districts, and improve the academic future for all students.
“Every child deserves a fair shot at a high-quality education,” Gov. Andrew Cuomo said. “This funding will help level the academic playing field for children in these underprivileged communities, giving them opportunity to succeed, thrive and ultimately lead in New York.”
Funding was awarded to school districts based on the quality of the application and other factors, including district and student need, efforts to target the highest need students, and efforts to maximize total number of children served in pre-kindergarten programs.
The local schools that will receive aid are:
- Dansville Central School District – $198,487
- Dunkirk City School District – $692,168
- Genesee Valley Central School District – $203,065
- Lackawanna City School District – $583,859
“Research shows that as much as half of the achievement gap is already established before students enter first grade,” said Board of Regents Chancellor Betty A. Rosa. “Investing in high-quality prekindergarten programs can narrow the achievement gap between low-income and affluent youth and have a positive long-term impact on children’s lives. Giving our children a quality head start is simply the right thing to do.”
“We know that prekindergarten makes a huge difference in preparing children for school,” said State Education Commissioner MaryEllen Elia. “High-quality prekindergarten programs, especially those that provide full-day services and serve low-income or high need students, help those students stay on track to graduate from high school and, over the long term, significantly reduce costs for remedial education, social services, health and criminal justice programs.
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