The federal government allocated more than $1 billion for New York schools in its latest COVID-19 relief package.

New York state Sen. Shelley Mayer is applauding the efforts of teachers and families alike during the outbreak.

"Our schools have done a tremendous job during a very challenging period,” says Sen. Mayer.

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Schools have been forced to adjust to a new world where classes are no longer taught in person, and school buildings aren't a source of child care or nutrition.

"This money was a godsend for the coming year for schools. So starting July, when the school year begins, we are going to get the same amount of money for every school district as we got the year before,” says Sen. Mayer.

New York Rep. and chair of the Appropriations Committee Nita Lowey helped secure the funding for her state.

New York Rep. and chair of the Appropriations Committee Nita Lowey helped secure the funding for her state.

Despite the federal funds, the Yonkers School District says it is still faced with a $22 million shortfall.

Sen. Mayer says they’ll need more to help students adjust back to schooling when life gradually returns.

"We need Congress to give the state money, number one -- the cities and towns and villages. But we also need this kind of education money that Rep. Lowey and our Congress members and senators got for us last time,” says Sen. Mayer.

As for the current status of the state Legislature, Sen. Mayer tells News 12 she hopes they can get back to Albany next month.