Bill > A00323

This bill modifies New York state education law by lowering the compulsory school age from six to five years old, while providing some flexibility for parents and school districts. The legislation changes the requirement for children to attend full-time instruction, allowing children who turn five years old on or before December 31st (or a later date established by the local school district) to be required to attend school starting in September of that school year. Parents are given the option to delay their child's enrollment until the following September if they choose not to enroll their five-year-old in school or home instruction in the initial year. The bill maintains the upper age limit of sixteen years for compulsory education, with provisions for students who complete a four-year high school course or obtain employment certificates. Additionally, the bill gives school districts the ability to require attendance for sixteen to seventeen-year-olds who are not employed. The changes aim to provide more consistent and earlier educational opportunities for children while maintaining parental choice in school enrollment timing. The bill will take effect on the first of July following its passage into law.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A323