Introduction

Learning Objectives

  • Describe the hierarchy of New York State governance of education
  • Identify the role of Federal, State and Local government on NYS Education
  • Describe how public schools are financed
  • Identify the governmental agencies and how NYS public education financed
  • Identify other School Options (Charter, Magnet, Online)

Icebreaker: Reflect, write and Discuss

Take five minutes to reflect on the questions below and write out your thoughts.

  1. New York State spends approximately $24,000 to educate each student a year. If you attended a New York State Public school do you think you received a $24,000 education each year? Yes or No and why?
  2. What are your thoughts on the amount of money NYS spends on each pupil per year?
  3. What should be the criteria for how money is allocated per school district? Who do you think should determine the amount of money allocated per school?
  4. If you oversaw the New York State Education budget what is one specific area you would improve and why?

As a teacher you will need to be aware of how schools are organized, governed and financed. Where you work will also determine the amount of money and resources available to you.  The federal, state and local government all play a role in the complex financial system of education.  Keep in mind that how well a school is funded is often a reflection of the community composition and wealth (number of businesses, homeowners, taxpayers, population size).  In this chapter we will learn how schools are governed and financed in public education and begin to explore how these factors impact our ability to help students learn.