Senator Siela Bynoe Secures $24 Million in Additional Charter School Aid for Hempstead Union Free School District

(Albany, NY) Today, Senator Siela Bynoe (SD-6) announced that through her leadership, the Enacted State Budget will include $24 million in new targeted relief funding for the Hempstead Union Free School District (UFSD). This was a key priority and a major victory for the Senate District. The funding will help offset the significant financial strain caused by the district’s rapidly growing charter school enrollment. This is on top of $247.6 million for Hempstead in Foundation and School Aid Funding. 

Through Senator Bynoe’s advocacy, this funding will help the district avoid layoffs, protect critical student services, and restore financial stability. 

“All children deserve a high-quality public education that prepares them for the rest of their lives. Unfortunately, the current outflow of public school students to charter schools has placed unbearable financial pressure on the Hempstead Union Free School District. In my first budget negotiations as State Senator, I fought to ensure Hempstead School District is appropriately resourced to guarantee that each student receives a quality education.” said Senator Bynoe. “Now, for the first time ever, Hempstead UFSD will receive $24 million to offset those costs. This is a lifesaver for the students, the staff, and the families who rely on Hempstead UFSD. As your State Senator, I will never walk away from the needs of my community. I am proud to deliver this win for our schools.” 

In addition to securing this critical relief funding, Senator Bynoe delivered $175,000 to ensure technical assistance of a fiscal monitor, a key asset in assisting the district with strengthening its financial management and long-term planning. This support is crucial as charter enrollment and the district’s tuition obligations are expected to increase with the opening of a fifth charter school in the 2026-27 school year. 

###