With three crucial weeks remaining in March before lawmakers are expected to adopt a state budget, now is the time for charter school supporters to make their voices heard on the cap lift.

Budget proposals released by the Assembly and State Senate did not include cap lift provisions. We interpret this as a sign that leadership in both houses want to address the cap lift outside the budget process, a move that would weaken our position.

In recent weeks, working with the New York Charter Schools Association, we have been able to stop legislation harmful to charter schools. We need your help and support if we are to keep pressure on lawmakers to preserve the cap lift during the current budget negotiations.

PROJECT POSTCARD
 
The Center has delivered 10,000 postcards to NYC charter schools. We urge school leaders, parents, board members and charter school supporters to get those postcards out immediately to Speaker Sheldon Silver and state lawmakers requesting their support for cap lift legislation.

MARCH 21 LOBBY DAY
 
Given the new urgency to budget negotiations an Albany Lobby Day is scheduled for Tuesday, March 21. This event is being organized by the Charter Center and the New York Charter Schools Association. 

We are asking each charter school to send two representatives (parent, board member, funder, staff member) on March 21. Transportation from Manhattan to Albany and back will be provided to participants, as well as lunch. The New York Charter Schools Association will schedule meetings with lawmakers. 

If you cannot attend Lobby Day, we ask that you call or visit the district office of your lawmakers.
 
For more information on the March 21 Lobby Day, or to make your reservations, please contact Jeff Maclin at jmaclin@nycchartercenter.org or call 212-437-8310.