Advocates claim that budget cuts to early childhood education programs are driving children out of New York City’s public school system. Since 2022, Mayor Eric Adams has cut an estimated $400 million from these programs, with an additional 14% cut planned for 2025. In July, early childhood education is set to lose $170 million, compounded by the expiration of $92 million in federal pandemic aid supporting the 3K program and $90 million for special education programs. As a result, some parents are opting for community-based alternatives like Grand Street Settlement. However, these community programs often face even deeper budget cuts than public schools. Advocates and officials, including City Council Education Committee Chair Rita Joseph and Schools Chancellor David Banks, are urging for the restoration of funding to sustain these critical programs.
https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/3k-pre-k-nyc-budget-cuts
