NYS Theatre Institue

Statement: New York State Theatre Institute Budget Status

In the 2010 budget Governor David Paterson submitted to the state legislature, he has proposed cutting NYSTI’s funding by 50% this April 1, and completely “zeroing out” its state funding in April, 2011.

93% of NYSTI's budget of $3,066,000. provides for salaries and fringe benefits for 33 full-time employees and 100 part-time teachers, artists and technicians

Losing state funding would mean the loss of this unique and pioneering component of New York State’s public education history. NYSTI touches the lives of all sorts of students from the disengaged to the highly motivated to those with special needs. There is a place for every student at NYSTI.

New York’s budget is now in the hands of state senators and assembly members. They are meeting with constituents, holding hearings and taking note of what mail, email and petitions they receive in support of various programs about which they must decide.

Additional Information

• Citizens for NYSTI - Official advocacy organization for the New York State Theatre Institute
• Program Testimonials - Correspondance NYSTI has received about its impact and work.
  • New: Hackett Middle School student testimonials on their visit to NYSTI, Feb. 2010
  • Former Institute Interns
  • Educators