NYCSA consolidates insights, input, and experience from across New York State’s vast public charter school sector in order to develop comprehensive statewide legislative priorities and lead our sector in taking action to make those ideas a reality.
We advocate for equitable per-pupil funding for charter schools across New York State. Currently, charter schools receive significantly less funding per student compared to district schools. This gap limits resources for instruction, support services, and extracurricular programs. Our efforts aim to ensure that all public school students, including those in charter schools, have access to the resources they need to succeed.
We campaign for fair facilities funding, particularly for the nearly 24,000 charter school students in New York City who are excluded from rental assistance programs. These students' schools must divert operational funds to cover facility costs, reducing the resources available for educational programs. We urge policymakers to extend facilities aid to all charter schools to promote equity and optimal learning environments.
We support lifting the cap on the number of charter schools permitted in New York State. Despite high demand, the current cap restricts the establishment of new charter schools, limiting educational options for families. Advocating for the removal of this cap will allow for the expansion of high-quality charter schools to meet community needs.
Through these advocacy efforts, we strive to create a more equitable and dynamic educational landscape for all students in New York. We believe that the innovative options that public charter schools offer is a critical facet of the public education system, helping it evolve to meet the ever-changing needs of students.
