Rabbi Yeruchim Silber Of Agudath Israel Testifies Regarding East Ramapo School District

By Idy Perl

On Wednesday, January 29, Rabbi Yeruchim Silber, Director of New York Government Relations at Agudath Israel of America, testified at the NYS Joint Legislative Budget Hearings. His testimony focused on recommendations to improve the East Ramapo School District, which has been in turmoil over various budgetary issues. 

"Every child in East Ramapo, whether attending a private or public school, should have access to a quality education and well- maintained school building, as well as receive all essential services, whether it's transportation or special ed," Rabbi Silber said. "Sadly, many of the public school advocates have often reverted to anti-semitic tropes and false accusations of racism, which only serve to further divide people and do nothing to improve the education of students in the district." 

Rabbi Silber went on to mention the recent tax levy that was proposed by Commissioner Rosa and passed by the school board, as well as the $30 million surplus that was found in November.

"We believe that the root of the East Ramapo problem is the Foundation Aid formula, which is fundamentally flawed. It does not account for non-public school students, even though the district is required to supply services to all children," he further stated. "Given the unique demographics of this district, where most children attend non-public schools, the district has naturally experienced budgetary shortfalls.... The income wealth per capita should be based not on the number of public school students, but on the total school aged population. We urge the legislature to follow this recommendation and adjust the formula accordingly."