Schools host forum to spotlight education issues

The Williamsville, Amherst, Sweet Home and Clarence school districts will host a legislative forum from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 24 in the Williamsville district boardroom, 105 Casey Road.

New York State Regents Chancellor Robert Bennett will join Assemblymen Jim Hayes and Michael Cole, along with a representative for Sen. Mary Lou Rath, in a public discussion about the common challenges faced by local schools.

Four specific topics will be presented, including special education, universal pre-K, school funding and the state's P-16 Initiative, which includes workforce development. The state officials will address each issue and will respond to audience questions.

The four school boards are sponsoring the event. The public is encouraged to attend, and free babysitting will be available.