Mahopac school officials say 'Stop' to NYS e-bus mandate and federal aid cuts

MAHOPAC, N.Y.—The Mahopac Board of Education’s Ad Hoc Advocacy Committee and Superintendent Christine Tona are asking district residents to urge legislators to address “two key issues” that could impact the school district budget for years to come.

In an email to the Mahopac schools community, Tona said the Advocacy Committee raised two primary concerns: the unfunded New York State mandate to move to electric buses and potential cuts in federal education funding. Tona said both could strain the budget, raise taxes, and “negatively affect our students and district.”

Officials are asking residents to tell their representatives in Albany and Washington to stand up for local taxpayers.

“The entire community is asked to participate by sending letters or making phone calls to our local legislators,” Tona wrote.

One Advocacy Committee push, called “Pump the Brakes on the Electric Bus Mandate,” addresses a state law requiring all new school bus purchases to be electric starting in 2027 (and for entire fleets to be electric by 2035). District officials warn the costs of meeting that mandate could be devastating for future budgets.

“The cost of this mandate will be prohibitive and have a severe impact on future school budgets,” Tona warned.

The second effort, “Save Federal Funding for Our Schools,” is focused on preserving critical financial support for special education and curricular programs. Cuts to this funding could lead to reduced services or higher local taxes.

“Any cuts to this funding may reduce programs or increase costs to local taxpayers,” Tona said.

The district is asking residents to contact legislators at both the state and federal levels. Sample letters and phone scripts are available on the district website (under the Ad Hoc Advocacy Subcommittee section).

While Tona's email went out to families with students in the district and other subscribers, the budget affects all taxpayers within the district.

“All of our voices together will make a big difference,” Tona wrote. “Your participation is greatly appreciated.”