NYC Schools Revive Controversial Pandemic-Era Budget Policy

New York City public schools will not face budget cuts this fall, even if student enrollment is lower than projected. This decision reverses a policy shift from last year and reinstates the controversial pandemic-era "hold harmless" approach. Around 800 schools would have received $157 million in cuts under the previous plan. The Department of Education stated that maintaining school funding is a priority to ensure student success.

<img src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/11/melissa-aviles-ramos-nyc-doe-27404299.jpg?w=1024" alt="Melissa Aviles-Ramos">

Critics Call it 'Rewarding Failure'

This decision has drawn criticism. Experts argue that the "hold harmless" policy rewards failure, benefits administrators and the teachers' union (UFT) at the expense of taxpayers and students. They believe that the city needs to address declining enrollment more efficiently.

<img src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/11/mayor-eric-adams-announced-new-90385602.jpg?w=1024" alt="Mayor Eric Adams">

A Political Decision?

Some suggest the move is politically motivated, given Mayor Eric Adams' current challenges, including a federal indictment and low approval ratings. Maintaining positive relations with the educational establishment and unions might be a key strategy for the Mayor during this time.

The Bigger Picture

The city resumed mid-year budget adjustments based on actual enrollment last year for the first time since the pandemic. However, factors like new programs, increased staffing, and class-size regulations have prompted the return to the "hold harmless" policy. The Mayor's office has not yet commented on this controversial reversal.