Directs the commissioner to convene statewide and regional conventions to bring together underrepresented educators annually to discuss experiences, best practices, and afford for networking, mentorship opportunities, and support.
Exempts school district providers of special services or programs for preschool students with disabilities from having to obtain program approval from the commissioner of education.
Provides that for the purposes of educational leave, an eligible incarcerated individual shall include an incarcerated individual who is within two years of being an eligible incarcerated individual.
This bill authorizes Salamanca City School District to create a reserve fund (capped at $5 million) using existing district funds if federal impact aid decreases. The fund would stabilize school tax levies and maintain educational services if federal aid is reduced, directly affecting Salamanca students and taxpayers. Voter approval via a separate ballot question is required before establishing the fund, and withdrawals would be disclosed in annual budget reports. The bill specifies that funds would be drawn from unassigned balances or other existing reserves, not new taxes.
Enacts the "go green schools act" to assist school districts in converting to renewable energy sources as a primary source of energy; directs NYSERDA to conduct a study and make recommendations for such purpose.
Establishes the New York state Black history preservation commission to ensure the documentation and preservation of Black history in New York state within the state university of New York.
Requires instruction in arts and music education to be incorporated into curriculums for all public school students; requires school districts to ensure that appropriately certified teachers are providing such education; authorizes rules and regulations consistent with such provisions.
Requires the administration of certain vaccines for children in accordance with regulations issued by the commissioner, utilizing generally accepted medical standards and based on recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American College of Physicians, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, or other similar nationally or internationally recognized scientific organizations.
Bill S 1424 amends the education law to expand protections against discrimination for students. It prohibits discrimination by school employees or other students on school property or at school functions based on a student's religious attire, clothing, or facial hair. This bill adds these specific protections to existing anti-discrimination provisions covering characteristics like race, religion, and disability. It also clarifies that certain gender-based admissions and disability-related actions permitted under other laws are not prohibited.
Directs the education department and OCFS to prepare posters and pamphlets with information regarding higher education funding opportunities for foster youth.
