NEW YORK (WBNG) — The New York State Board of Regents released its outline for the 2026-27 budget, calling for a $1.1 billion increase in State Aid.
According to the Education Department, the budget prioritizes excellence and equity for all students and identifies ways to better address the needs of underserved populations, including youth who reside in detention settings and students with disabilities.
Other priorities include expanding universal prekindergarten opportunities, increasing access to technical education, and supporting those seeking access to higher education, among other objectives.
The bulk of the budget breakdown includes:
$996.8 million increase in Foundational Aid to serve districts with English language learners and to support essential services for students experiencing homelessness$30.1 million increase for enhancements that would allow nearly 1,500 new students in high-need districts to enroll in prekindergarten$96.9 million increase in reimbursement-based aid under current law projections
The department detailed other priorities, including:
$12 million in funding for the Office of Cultural Education.$211 million to support infrastructure improvements at the New York State School for the Blind, the New York State School for the Deaf, St. Regis Mohawk Nation School at Akwesasne, Tuscarora Nation School, and Onondaga Nation School. $10 million to support non-BOCES districts to offer career and technical education opportunities$11.2 million for programs promoting equity in access to higher education, including $1 million ot fund the Foster Youth College Success Initiative and $2 million to support post-secondary success for students with disabilities.$2 million to provide residential programming and scholarships for students interested in arts education
The proposal also calls for state aid statutes to cover educational expenses for students with disabilities until the age of 22, rather than the current age of 21.
“At its core, the Board of Regents is dedicated to the mission of ensuring that every student in New York State has an equal opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed,” said Board of Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young. “This year’s budget priorities reflect the Board’s steadfast commitment to equity and excellence for all students, across every community and of every background, while addressing the most pressing challenges shaping their education today. We remain resolute in championing the resources and support necessary for every student to thrive at every stage of their educational journey.”
Learn more about the budget proposal at the Education Department’s website.
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