NYC Gazette

Speaker Carl Heastie continued his annual statewide tour today alongside Assemblywoman Sarah Clark, visiting the Pinegrove building in the West Irondequoit Central School District (WICSD). The visit highlighted a proposed $6 million project to repurpose the former elementary school for district use.

Joining Heastie and Clark were WICSD Superintendent Aaron Johnson and Irondequoit Town Supervisor Andrae Evans. The school district's proposal includes renovating three classroom facilities to expand its universal pre-kindergarten program, which currently has an extended waiting list. Additionally, the renovation aims to enhance Helmer Nature Center classrooms, expand in-district tutoring opportunities, and provide administrative support within the Pinegrove building.

“Assemblywoman Clark has fought hard to ensure the West Irondequoit Central School District has the support they need to expand their universal pre-k program and provide additional resources to families across their community,” said Speaker Heastie. “The Assembly Majority remains committed to supporting New York’s families and ensuring that every public school district has the resources it needs to provide our children a world-class education.”

“I’m grateful to be able to announce this state investment today as we work to provide our schools the ability to ensure every child can grow and thrive,” said Assemblywoman Clark. “Repurposing the Pinegrove building to better meet the needs of families today is so very critical. This proposed project will both revitalize it and allow our school district the ability to properly expand its services to more children in the district."

"We are very thankful for Assemblywoman Clark and Speaker of the Assembly Heastie's essential investment in our children," said Dr. Aaron R. Johnson, superintendent of schools in West Irondequoit. "The support allows us to confidently create more spots for future 4-year-olds in our blossoming Pre-Kindergarten program, enabling students to establish crucial foundational skills and reach their highest potential as learners."

“Expanding access to UPK is one of the best investments we can make in our children’s education,” said Irondequoit Town Supervisor Andrae Evans. “The learned skills during these formative years prepare them for success throughout their entire education. I want to thank Assemblywoman Sarah Clark, Speaker Heastie, and our partners here at the West Irondequoit School District for their continued support of our children.”

To support this initiative, Speaker Heastie and Assemblywoman Clark announced $1 million in state funding.