AFC testified before the New York City Council’s Committee on Finance regarding the November Financial Plan, and our concerns about the impact of the $547 million cut to New York City Public Schools (NYCPS) this year – and the more than $600 million cut planned for next year.

In addition to concerns about cuts to programs like community schools and 3-K, we are already seeing the impact of the hiring freeze and vacancy reduction. While central staff is needed to operate the school system for all students, staff working outside of schools are particularly important to support students with the greatest needs. Cutting hundreds of NYCPS staff members means it takes longer for immigrant students to get a school placement, for students who are homeless to get a bus route, and for students with disabilities to get services. The City has legal obligations to these students that cannot be ignored.