We use cookies to make your site experience better. Tracking cookies enables us to provide a functional Accessibility Toolbar, and easily log into your account (if you have one). For more information on how we use your data, read our privacy policy.

NYC Arts in Education Roundtable

Register Now: City Council Committee on Education Preliminary Education Budget Hearing (3/18)

2 minutes

On Monday, March 18th at 10am ET, the New York City Council’s Committee on Education will host a Preliminary Budget Hearing, chaired by Council Member and educator Rita Joseph.

The Mayor’s 2024-2025 draft city budget currently projects funding cuts that would impact arts in schools. This is a critical moment for our community to share about the impact of arts education (especially as it relates to student social-emotional wellbeing, academic achievement, and safety). Specific results and examples of successfully providing arts and cultural education will be the most impactful during your testimony (and don’t forget to mention that you are part of the It Starts with the Arts Coalition!). 

We are encouraging everyone impacted by these cuts to testify at this upcoming hearing to amplify the need to prioritize arts, culture, and arts education in our city and our city’s budget. 

Those interested in participating can opt to provide two minutes of oral testimony in-person at City Hall or via Zoom. If you are not able to participate live, we strongly encourage submitting written testimony (feel free to use this testimony template to help get you started!). 

I’m Interested, What Next?

The most important thing to do right NOW is register to testify. You must be registered by Saturday, March 16 in order to participate VIRTUALLY. Those delivering IN-PERSON testimony can register upon arrival at City Hall. WRITTEN testimony can be submitted up to 72 hours after the hearing (Thursday, March 21).

You do NOT have to submit testimony now, though there is a part of the sign up that asks for it. Simply register your info and submit testimony when you are ready. Directions on how to register are included below. If you are testifying virtually, you will be sent a Zoom link for you to sign on that morning. You will be limited to two minutes of speaking time.

Register Now

Teaching artists, students, cultural workers, arts administrators, artists, teachers, and arts education champions — your voices matter! Thank you in advance for your attention to this vital issue. Let us know if you plan to testify by contacting Roundtable Executive Director, Kimberly Olsen at kolsen@nycaieroundtable.org. As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions!

##