Sequestration Could Affect Sachem's Federal Programs

Associate Superintendent for Sachem Schools Bruce Singer said a certain number of Sachem programs could be hurt if the federal government has to cut $85 billion across the board.

"Sachem receives three million in federal aid," Singer said. "We've received no information from the federal government if they're going to cut it, but certainly in the media we hear that's up for discussion."

If Congress and the White House can't agree on a deal to stave off sequestration, the $85 billion in cuts could affect Sachem's Title I programs, according to Singer, which identifies students who need special reading and math programs.

In additon to reading and math programs, Singer said the district also could stand to lose about $1 million in federal food subsidies, funds that allow the district to offer free and reduced lunch prices to the district's neediest children.

Earlier this morning, President Obama sat down with leaders on both sides of the aisle to reach a last-ditch agreement that would keep the sequestration cuts into taking effect today, according to the Associate Press.