Assemblymember Nily Rozic (D, WF-Fresh Meadows) has allocated over $900,00 in state funding to bolster educational institutions and community programs across her district, with the largest grants to be spent on building upgrades at local schools.
P4Q179, a District 75 school serving students with special needs, will receive $175,000 to renovate its auditorium, including new curtains, lighting and audio-visual equipment. “These improvements will significantly enhance our students’ learning experiences and provide a better environment for our school events,” said P4Q Principal Dr. Denise D’Anna.
P.S. 213Q has been allocated $250,000 to renovate its library, a project that will provide new furniture and modernize the high-traffic space. “Her commitment to enhancing community resources will have a lasting impact, ensuring our library continues to serve as a vibrant space for learning and connection,” said P.S. 213Q Interim Principal Odalis DeJesus.
M.S. 74 was awarded $320,000 to replace its outdated public announcement system, ensuring clear communication throughout the building. “Effective communication is essential for maintaining a safe and orderly learning environment,” said M.S. 74 Principal Brandon Contarsy. “Our outdated systems were hindering our ability to quickly disseminate important information during emergencies or routine announcements.”
In addition to the large school grants, Rozic also secured $15,000 for Young Israel of Hillcrest’s adult education program, which will offer Jewish culture classes and workshops open to the entire community. “I hope Young Israel of Hillcrest’s community programming will serve to bring people together at a time when we are being pulled so far apart by hate and intolerance,” said Rozic. “Sharing and learning is necessary to create a healthy society centered in respect and kindness.”
Rabbi Etan Schnall of Young Israel of Hillcrest expressed his gratitude: “The funds made available to us by New York State will provide resources to expand educational offerings that have not previously been available to our community.”
Rozic emphasized the importance of working closely with school leaders to address community needs. “Every year, I work with the school community to identify how we can improve the buildings that shape our youth and where they spend most of their time. Modernizing communal spaces in these buildings and providing state-of-the-art systems will allow students to foster creativity and confidence and maintain safety and order in these schools.”
Beyond these grants, Rozic is providing funds for community organizations, including $125,000 for the Chinese-American Planning Council’s community center in Flushing and $50,000 for senior wellness programs at the Selfhelp NORC in Fresh Meadows.
