So now that people have had the chance to get a look at what the Governor’s proposal for school aid really means, meaning they get to look at the aid figures commonly called “the runs,” the numbers are … disheartening is one adjective. Here’s a link to the Times-Union article where one official lamented “This is like handing out a couple of bucks to the homeless.”

Here’s a link to the Buffalo News article that details aid to a lot of western New York districts. Already officials are talking about cuts.

Here’s a link to the Syracuse Post-Standard article that says if this year’s budget allocation was a birthday present, it would be a pair of socks.

Here’s a link to North Country public radio’s report on how schools there are “fighting mad” over how disappointing the aid figures are.

Here’s a southern tier report of just how deep cuts to the Union-Endicott schools may be.

Folks, the fight is just beginning. On Monday, NYSUT will testify to lawmakers, as will many others, about the proposed budget’s impact on pre-K-12and offer details about options lawmakers should consider. I will tweet from that day of testimony live. There will also be hearings on higher education, health care and other areas of the budget. Locals are encouraged to visit their lawmakers in their home offices in the coming weeks. Bring specific details about how this budget is not nearly enough to make up for last year’s 1$1.3 billion in cuts.

I also have heard rumors of a sweetheart of a rally coming in February. More on that to come.