Washington, DC--Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) and Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-NY-18) secured a preliminary $400,000 in funding for the Yonkers Public Schools, as part of the FY 2011 Labor, Health and Education Appropriations bill.  The funding was secured along with Rep. Nita Lowey.

The funding is intended for use by the school district for student and teacher development, which may include equipment. 

Rep. Engel said, “As a former educator, I am always very pleased to help schools provide better education for their students.  The dedicated teachers and administrators from the Yonkers school district do an incredible job providing the future leaders of New York with a stellar education.  In today’s world, you must have the best equipment to compete in a high tech world, and this legislation will make it possible for Yonkers to pursue upgrades.”

“The best thing we can do for the future of our region is ensure children have access to the best educational opportunities,” said Rep. Lowey, the second-highest ranking Democrat on the Labor, Health, and Education Subcommittee.  “If enacted, this funding will help Yonkers Public Schools teach students with innovative equipment and techniques, and will help students be prepared for the competitive economy they will enter after graduation.”

Bernard P. Pierorazio, Superintendent of Schools, applauded the efforts,“Congressman Engel and Congresswoman Lowey continue to demonstrate their strong support for education, but most important, their determination to bring that funding to Yonkers.  This is especially appreciated now, as we weather this difficult economic climate.  Yonkers remains committed to excellence and providing a 21^st century learning environment for our 26,000 students, preparing them today for tomorrow’s global marketplace.”  

This action was a preliminary step in a long process. The bill will now be considered by the full House Appropriations Committee, and then the full House. The Senate is also working on their version of the bill.

Rep. Engel added, “While this is only the beginning of the Appropriations process, I feel very good that funding for this important program was included in this measure. I will continue working with my colleagues to ensure this funding is preserved as the bill moves through the legislative process.”  Rep. Engel is a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee.

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