Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s proposed $826 million increase in school aid represents a starting point for negotiations with the state Legislature, though the proposal represents less than half of the estimated $2 billion school districts need to maintain educational programs and expand learning opportunities.

We are particularly encouraged by the governor’s mention of additional funding for prekindergarten, afterschool programs, and early college high school programs, as well as his aggressive efforts to protect students from the health consequences associated with vaping.