Cassadaga Valley Middle/High School.

Cassadaga Valley Central School is one of 24 districts across New York state to receive a portion of $11.7 million in funding delivered to expand access to pre-K for 4-year-old children. The fiscal year 2023 Enacted Budget included $125 million to expand access to full-day pre-K, creating up to 17,500 additional pre-K seats statewide.

Of this $125 million, $11.7 million was awarded Friday through a competitive process administered by the State Education Department. “Providing opportunities for quality pre-K education sets up children, parents, and caretakers for success, and I’m proud to deliver this important investment for families across the state,” state Gov. Kathy Hochul said. “This funding will help children in their most important stages of development and growth. As a mother, I’ve seen how essential these resources are and my administration is committed to ensuring every child has the opportunity to succeed in New York.”

In our region, Cassadaga Valley Central School will receive $203,283 while Eden Central School District in southern Erie County is slated to get $257,328.

State Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa said, “When we strengthen supports and provide equitable opportunities for children in their early years, we see the benefits throughout their school years and beyond. Department is committed to expanding full-day prekindergarten programs that provide a strong educational foundation for our children, resulting in positive long-term outcomes.”