The city tourism bureau tapped Swift as "global welcome ambassador" last year even though critics noted she was a recent transplant to New York.
Some also complained that her song "Welcome to New York" from the album "1989" was bland and lifeless.
Swift responded by announcing last October that she would donate proceeds from the single to the city's schools.
A spokeswoman for the city Department of Education said today that Swift has now given USD 50,000.
Spokeswoman Devora Kaye says the department is "deeply appreciative of this kind gesture."
A representative for Swift didn't immediately return emails seeking comment.