ADVOCATES PUSH FOR AID
By MEREDITH KOLODNER
Education advocates are pressing Governor Spitzer to keep his promise to significantly increase school funding.

The coalition of groups wants this year's budget to include the first installment of $8.5 billion in additional state funding it says is necessary to fix the public education system. Between $4 and $6 billion would be earmarked for New York City, and the advocates say they will campaign statewide for the next 100 days to make sure the money is allocated.

"Governor Spitzer has a tremendous mandate for change, and he has clearly articulated an agenda to fix our schools," said Bill Easton, executive director for the Alliance for Quality Education. "In the first 100 days, he will have the maximum power of his entire administration."

AQE, in conjunction with the Campaign for Fiscal Equity, launched the "100 Days for Educational Excellence Campaign" with a series of events throughout the state, the day after Mr. Spitzer's State of the State address. The groups plan to hold rallies, lobby days and public hearings until the 100-day deadline on April 10.