Assemblymembers Jaffee and Zebrowski Joint Statement on Governor’s Appointment of Fiscal Monitor for East Ramapo

LEGISLATIVE PRESS RELEASE

Assemblymembers Ellen Jaffee (D-Suffern) and Kenneth Zebrowski (D-New City) both applaud the announcement by Governor Cuomo that he supports the efforts of the State Education Department to install attorney Hank Greenberg as the fiscal monitor for the East Ramapo Central School District. The announcement comes after years of meetings, conversations and requests from Assemblymembers Jaffee and Zebrowski, concerned parents, teachers and students for state intervention in East Ramapo.

Assemblymember Ellen Jaffee said, “I am pleased that the Governor is asking the state Education Department to step in and install a fiscal monitor for East Ramapo. For years I have been meeting with previous SED commissioners, State Regents Chancellor, Meryl Tisch, Education Commissioner, John King, and Deputy Commissioner, Ken Slentz, to address the unstable situation and the serious concerns raised by parents, teachers, students and government agencies. While there have been discussions regarding a formula change, immediate state financial oversight is absolutely essential. The devastating cuts to programs that the students and staff have endured are unacceptable. I will continue working with the SED and the Board of Regents to ensure that the children of East Ramapo get the quality education they deserve. I want to thank the Governor, the Chancellor and the Commissioners for this much needed oversight.”

“Today’s announcement is finally some good news for the district’s frustrated parents, teachers and students. For several years, we have been pushing the State to intervene in what has become a crisis situation. I am hopeful this monitor will restore public confidence and the appropriate opportunities and programs for students. I want to thank Governor Cuomo, the Department of Education and the Board of Regents for this historic oversight, and I look forward to working with them towards a long term solution for the district,” said Assemblymember Kenneth Zebrowski.