On Tuesday, February 6, 2024, the Farmingdale Legislative Action Committee (LAC) visited the New York State Capitol in Albany. Their purpose was to present their 2023-2024 legislative proposals and to discuss the impact of pending and future legislation on public schools. Established to assist the Board of Education in implementing solutions regarding legislative matters, the Committee focuses on assessing the impact of current and proposed State and Federal education legislation, promoting legislation that supports the District’s mission, and communicating vital information to the community.
The Legislative Action Committee comprises the Assistant to the Superintendent for Administration, Board of Education members, Farmingdale residents, Farmingdale High School students, Farmingdale staff, and members from the collective bargaining units. The committee meets with local and state officials several times yearly to discuss their current Legislative Proposals. This year, Senator Steven Rhoads, Assemblymen John Mikulin, Michael Durso, Jake Blumencranz, and Assemblywoman Kimberly Jean-Pierre visited Farmingdale High School to meet with the LAC.
The event's highlight was the guided tour of the New York State Capitol building, which included the legislative chambers, Hall of Governors, Governor’s Reception Room, Hall of New York, historic staircases, and carvings. During the visit, the LAC met with Senator Alexis Weik, Assemblymen Michael Benedetto, and Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio. Students also distributed Farmingdale proposals and lobbied for sustainable and predictable school funding, school safety, mental health, and wellness resources, and increased support for the needs of a shifting student population.
“Our Farmingdale High School students made our community proud with their poise, advocacy, and self-assurance for diverse topics expressed,” said Assistant to the Superintendent for Administration Dr. Samuel Thompson. “I just want to express my gratitude to all those who helped make this event a success and to our students who represented us well!”