Yesterday, Berlin Central School District’s Superintendent Ken Rizzo welcomed Assemblyman Scott Bendett (Assembly District 107) to the district for a sit-down to talk about some of the challenges rural schools face and the importance of partnership with elected officials when facing these challenges. One of the main conversations centered around advocating for increased Foundation Aid allocation for rural schools in New York. The visit also included a walk around the Berlin Middle High School building to highlight the outstanding work of Berlin CSD Mountaineers and educators despite the budgetary challenges they face.
Assemblyman Bendett has earmarked $20,000 in bullet aid for the Berlin Central School District. Bullet aid is targeted funding provided to schools, public libraries, or nonprofit institutions in addition to appropriated state aid. It is similar to a one-time grant.
“We are grateful for Assemblyman Bendett’s recognition of the Berlin Central School District and his support for our students. Scott is a tremendous advocate for rural schools which are often overlooked due to size and location,” stated Superintendent Rizzo.
“Many great things such as the Seal of Civic Readiness, Seal of Biliteracy and new outdoor Berlin Learning Landscape are happening within BCSD. It is an honor to have Assemblyman Bendett, Senator Jake Ashby, the State Education Department, and others recognize the district’s progress. They continue to engage in ways that are meaningful to our community and aligned with the district’s core mission: to maximize the diverse talents and aspirations of our Mountaineers and prepare them to assume responsibility for their own success in the workforce, higher education, the community, and life.”
Assemblyman Bendett’s office has notified the district that the bullet aid is scheduled to be sent in December. Although Berlin has not finalized how the funding will be allocated, the district is prioritizing programs which align with New State’s recently adopted Portrait of Graduate initiative and directly benefit students.
The district extends its sincere appreciation to Assemblyman Bendett for his continued support.
