Two of St. Lawrence County’s state representatives say they are satisfied with the amount of school aid promised in the 2015-2016 state budget.

However, they differ on how much money is actually going to schools statewide.

Assemblywoman Addie Russell, D-Theresa, says the deal will shave 98 percent of gap elimination from Norwood-Norfolk, Morristown, Massena, Lisbon, Madrid-Waddington, Hammond, Heuvelton and Ogdensburg school districts. This totals $25 million more in aid, according to Sen. Patty Ritchie, R-Heuvelton.

Russell says statewide, the deal gives $1.6 billion extra in state aid and cuts the GEA by 60 percent statewide. Ritchie says it gives $1.4 billion in extra education money statewide and cuts GEA by three-quarters.

“I‘ve listened to the concerns of parents, educators and students about how our schools need a fair state aid plan that supports quality education and increases opportunities for all our children,” Ritchie said. “That’s why I’m pleased once again to deliver a State Budget that includes a significant increase in school aid over the Governor’s proposal, and targets schools that need it most, like the rural districts I represent.”

“Our students deserve adequate funding and we’ve secured a dramatic increase in this year’s budget to support them,” Russell said. “$1 billion is going directly to school aid and GEA elimination, sending a strong message of support for our public schools.”

Ritchie represents the 48th Senate District. It covers all of northern and much of western St. Lawrence County, including Ogdensburg, Canton and Gouverneur. It extends into Jefferson and Oswego counties.

Russell represents the 116th Assembly District. It includes all St. Lawrence County communities along the St. Lawrence River, from Massena to Hammond, including Ogdensburg, Canton and Potsdam. It also covers parts of Jefferson County, including Watertown.