Last week, the Panel for Education Policy, which oversees NYC public schools, blocked the proposed formula for how much money each school should receive for the 2022-23 school year. The panel, which is known to typically okay the mayor’s policies, had concerns that the formula—which is the same one used for the current school year—does not properly provide funding for some groups of students such as those with disabilities or living in shelters.
The panel consists of 15 members and eight votes are needed to pass the formula. Only seven voted in favor, which can potentially hold up the $10.5 billion in state and local funds. NeQuan McLean, the president of Community Education Council 16 in Brooklyn was appointed to a task force by former Mayor Bill de Blasio to study the issues with the old formula. Their report—which was never made public—recommended giving more money to students with disabilities, students in all high schools, and for those in temporary housing and foster care.
While the concerns of the formula are valid, the delay in voting can cause issues with the next school year—reducing hiring periods for schools and affecting planning for September. The panel will most likely vote again at their May 18 meeting.
