Lupinacci, RA Hold Press Conference Calling For Equal Funding For Schools Servicing Students With Disabilities

NEW YORK – Assemblyman Chad A. Lupinacci (R,C,I,Ref.-South Huntington) joined Assemblyman Ed Ra (R-Franklin Square), and Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi (D-Utica) for a joint press conference this morning as they advocated funding increases for Special Act schools and 853, 4201, 4410 preschool programs. Special Act schools and 853, 4201, 4410 preschool programs are classifications given by the New York State Department of Education to non-public day and residential programs for school-age students with disabilities. These institutions have no taxing authority and are entirely reliant on the state tuition ratemaking system to generate revenue to support their operations.

“Today was a tremendous step forward as we work towards funding parity between New York’s public schools and schools that serve children with disabilities,” said Lupinacci. “Students in these schools require tailored programs which fit their educational needs. While we have made significant progress in bringing much-needed aid to these schools, there is still a significant funding gap that must be closed. I am proud to join my colleagues and 853, 4201 and 4410 schools in their fight for funding parity,” continued Lupinacci.

“853, 4201 and 4410 schools do tremendous work on behalf of our students with disabilities and their importance to New York’s education system cannot be overstated,” Ra said. “While some progress was made in last year’s budget, these institutions still lag significantly behind the increases given to our public schools is recent state budgets.”

“It is very important every student in New York State receives a quality education. The programs at our 853, 4201 and 4410 schools are vital to our most vulnerable students and their families. The educators of these schools do more with less, but it is time we step up to the plate and provide them with the support they deserve,” said Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi (D-Utica).

The Assemblyman were joined by Bernadette Kappen, Executive Director of the New York Institute for Special Education, Karen Carpenter-Palumbo, President of Vanderheyden Hall, and Lara Horton of Capital District Beginnings along with other advocates for these schools.

Pictured Above: Assemblyman Lupinacci speaks at the press conference.
Press Release by James Coughlin.
Press Release Made Available by the Office of Assemblyman Chad A. Lupinacci.