ALBANY, N.Y. April 21, 2020 — New York State United Teachers President Andy Pallotta released the following statement today on potential state cuts to public education:
“The coronavirus crisis has laid bare the inequality in public education and society. Working people and their families have borne the brunt of this crisis. Millions have been left without jobs, and now there’s talk across the state of draconian cuts to public education, the bedrock of society. Meanwhile, billionaires and ultramillionaires have sought refuge in second homes and on yachts as the working class keeps essential businesses and services running.
“Despite the challenges we face, public schools and colleges have remained a constant, acting as more than just centers of learning. They are cornerstones of our communities, feeding our students, helping their families deal with economic and social needs, and supporting our entire communities.
“Cuts will devastate schools and colleges that already had growing lists of needs before the floor dropped out from the economy. Direct federal aid for these institutions is a critical step that can help, but so too is the state seeking new revenues through taxes on the ultrawealthy to help fund essential public services like education. Now is the time to invest in our schools and colleges, not deny them the resources they need to provide for communities statewide.”
New York State United Teachers is a statewide union with more than 600,000 members in education, human services and health care. NYSUT is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers, the National Education Association and the AFL-CIO.