In a late-night vote, New York lawmakers passed the FY2026 state budget, delivering a win for yeshivos and nonpublic schools across the state. The budget includes significant increases in funding and expands key programs that support thousands of students in Jewish day schools and other nonpublic institutions.

One of the most significant achievements is a $10 million increase to the state’s innovative STEM reimbursement program, bringing the total allocation to $85.5 million. This boost will enable more nonpublic school students to access high-quality instruction in science, technology, engineering, and math.

Additionally, nonpublic schools will now be included in the state’s newly created Universal Free Meals program. This landmark policy ensures that all students, regardless of the school they attend, will receive free, nutritious meals each day—a long-standing goal of education advocates who have fought for equal treatment.

Security funding for nonpublic schools was also renewed and expanded, with $70 million allocated for the Nonpublic School Safety Equipment (NPSE) program and $35 million set aside for the Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes (SCAHC) initiative.

The state also maintained funding for other vital programs, including $230 million for mandated services reimbursement (CAP/MSR) and $5 million to support arts and music instruction in nonpublic schools.

“This is a monumental moment,” said Sydney Altfield, Executive Director of Teach NYS. “It proves that when our community advocates loudly and clearly on behalf of our children, our leaders respond.”

Teach NYS extended its gratitude to Governor Hochul, the State Senate, and the Assembly for recognizing the needs of nonpublic school students. The organization also acknowledged its coalition partners—Agudath Israel of America, the Catholic Conference, the Islamic School Association, and the UJA Federation of New York—for their collaboration in securing this funding.

But the biggest thanks, Altfield emphasized, goes to the families, students, and member schools who rallied, spoke out, and helped shape the outcome. “Your advocacy made this possible. Now it’s time to thank our elected officials and let them know this support is noticed—and deeply appreciated.”

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)