Photo Courtesy of Sen. Addabbo
“We have to invest in these schools as well, making them as attractive as possible to bring in prospective students,” Sen. Addabbo said of trade schools.
By Michael V. Cusenza
State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Howard Beach) recently noted that last month’s record launch of mobile sports betting in NY means piles of cash for state schools.
Before COVID impacted all aspects of life, the gaming industry was responsible for bringing in more than $3 billion in funding for education each year. With the advent of mobile sports betting and New York breaking a national record with $1.6 billion for a month of betting wagers, that number is sure to increase and give schools even more funding, the senator noted.
“There are more funding streams going to New York’s educational department than ever before. All of this money will do wonders for students across the state,” said Addabbo, chairman of the Racing, Gaming and Wagering Committee and a member of the Education Committee. “However, it is not always how much money we have available, but it is more important how that money is spent. We have to ensure that the programs that have been working continue to receive funding, and look to reevaluate things that are not working to their best potential.”
Earlier this month, the State Legislature met virtually with education advocates from throughout the NY, including City Schools Chancellor David Banks, to discuss the educational portion of the Governor’s Executive Budget.
Photo Courtesy of Michael Appleton/Mayoral Photography Office
The State Legislature met virtually with education advocates from throughout the NY, including City Schools Chancellor David Banks (r.).
Last year, the State was able to procure additional Foundation Aid funding in the sum of more than $1 billion for NYC, as well as funding through the American Rescue Plan Act. Addabbo said he is looking to continue this funding into this year.
During the virtual meeting with the new schools chancellor, Addabbo was able to ask Banks a question about investing more into trade schools that will give students the opportunity to learn a skill that can translate into work upon graduation.
“While traditional colleges and universities are the destination for many young students, there are plenty of them that want to go to school to learn a trade skill which can get them into some great paying jobs,” Addabbo said. “We have to invest in these schools as well, making them as attractive as possible to bring in prospective students.”
Another topic discussed in the meeting was the extension of Mayoral control. While Addabbo is in favor of extending Mayoral control, he wants to use this opportunity to examine it and improve it for the students.
School safety measures were also discussed at the virtual meeting.
“As a parent of two daughters in the public school system, I know the concerns parents have in sending their kids to school,” Addabbo added.
