In this year's New York State budget, the Plainedge School District will receive $18,282,482 in aid, a number that State Senator Kemp Hannon claims is a "record" in financial assistance.

"Last year, the Governor proposed massive cuts to Long Island's schools. This year, the executive branch tried to cut Long Island school aid again. I am pleased to be able to have secured this funding for Plainedge's schools and taxpayers," said Senator Hannon.

The senator claimed that while Long Island educates 17 percent of the state's students, then-Governor Eliot Spitzer was proposing the Island receive only 8.2 percent of the pie in education aid. Long Island's state senators held a rally in March, which was attended by over 1,500 residents demanding a fair share in funds.

On May 20, school districts on Long Island will hold budget votes. "With this aid, local school boards should be looking to decrease taxes and not propose increases this year," added Senator Hannon. "With this funding, schools should be able to reduce their budget proposals and strengthen accountability to our students."