The Peru Gazette

PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. , June 9, 2026 – Assemblyman Michael S. Cashman (D-Plattsburgh) announced funding for various educational programs throughout the 115^th district today, including $100,000 for the AuSable Valley Central School District. The announcement comes after the legislative concluded late last week.

“I am thrilled to share that I was able to secure $255,000 for six different organizations that support early and adult education throughout the North Country,” Cashman said. “From events that introduce the importance of literacy at an early age to on-the-job training for adult learners, each of these organizations puts on incredibly important programs, and I am proud to have continued to bring resources back to the North Country.”

“I am especially proud of the $100,000 I was able to designate to the AuSable Valley Central School District. The district has been strained with the realities that come with being a rural school district, and these monies will assist with various educational experiences within the district. I will continue to engage with school leadership from across the district to better understand their needs and goals in advance of next year’s budget.”

Mark Francia, the Superintendent of Schools for AuSable Valley Central School District, shared his excitement in a statement.

“We are extremely grateful to Assemblyman Cashman for securing $100,000 in Bullet Aid for AuSable Valley Central School District,” Francia said. “Earlier this fall, members of our Board of Education and I had the opportunity to meet with Assemblyman Cashman and discuss the financial challenges facing rural school districts. He took the time to listen, understand our concerns, and advocate on our behalf.

“This funding demonstrates Assemblyman Cashman’s commitment to the students, families, and communities of the North Country. While financial pressures continue to impact AuSable Valley and many other local school districts, this support shows that he understands the unique challenges rural schools face and is willing to fight for the resources our students need to be successful.”

“On behalf of our students, staff, Board of Education, and community, I want to thank Assemblyman Cashman for his advocacy and continued support of public education in the North Country.”

An additional $155,000 was designated to five other educational organizations and programs throughout the district. The funding breakdown is as follows:

• $100,000 to AuSable Valley Central School District for various educational programs.
• $50,000 to Clinton Community College for the Pathways for Women to Careers in Technology and Manufacturing program.
• $40,000 to the North Country Chamber of Commerce for on-the-job training activities.
• $25,000 to Lake Placid Association for Music, Drama and Art for the Art of the Olympians Program.
• $20,000 to John Brown Lives! for the annual Adirondack Family Book Festival.
• $20,000 to the 1814 Commemoration for the annual Battle of Plattsburgh events.

            The funds were allocated to the district during one of the final votes of the 2026 legislative session.