Subject:

We need to restore the $21.4 million for Teacher Centers in the final budget, just as they have before.

Dear Legislator, 

Teacher Centers provide essential professional development for New York’s educators. Unfortunately, the executive budget did not include funding for these vital services. 

Across New York, Teacher Centers are the primary system for educator professional development, serving more than 200 high-need districts, BOCES and schools across the state. Their guiding principle is simple: professional learning for educators is best led by educators. 

Teacher Centers support early-career teachers through mentorship and hands-on professional learning to increase retention. These centers are organized and run by educators who know what is needed to improve student outcomes — from support for students with disabilities and English language learners to STEM, robotics and coding.  

At a time when teacher shortages persist and student needs are growing more complex, the executive budget proposal to eliminate Teacher Center funding would dismantle a proven, cost-effective infrastructure that supports educators, stabilizes the workforce and increases educator effectiveness.  

We have been in this position before, where the executive budget has zeroed out funding for Teacher Centers. I am asking for your help in restoring the $21.4 million for Teacher Centers in the final budget, as the Legislature has done in the past to ensure that our students get the education they need and deserve. 

Sincerely, 

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