Governor proposes school aid cuts

As expected, Gov. David Paterson's proposed executive budget includes reductions in state aid to school districts across New York state, part of an effort to close the cash-strapped state's $7.4 billion deficit.

"Significant spending reductions are necessary if we want to emerge from this crisis and build a strong fiscal and economic recovery," Paterson said.

The proposed budget, released today, calls for a $1.1 billion reduction in state aid payments to schools — a five percent cut from the current year budget.

It was not clear on Tuesday how much money the Baldwin School District was set to lose in 2010-11, but school board officials had been anticipating a 10 to 20 percent reduction prior to the release of the executive budget.

Paterson's budget also recommends spending reductions on health care and on some state agencies. Tax increases, about $1 billion worth, are also part of the spending plan.