Bill > S00834

This bill establishes a task force on pandemic learning loss in New York state to comprehensively study the impacts of remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic on pre-kindergarten through secondary students. The twelve-member task force, appointed by various state leaders including the Governor, will investigate key areas such as academic regression in reading, math, and science; student disenrollment; the effects of masking on speech development; mental health consequences; changes in standardized test scores; the effectiveness of remote versus classroom learning; and disparities in learning loss across minority and non-minority communities. The task force will include representatives from education organizations like New York State United Teachers and the New York State School Boards Association, as well as charter school representatives. Members will serve without compensation but can be reimbursed for expenses, and they are required to elect a chair and complete their appointments within 30 days of the act's effective date. The task force must submit a detailed report to the Governor and Legislature by December 31, 2025, with their findings and recommendations. The bill will automatically expire on January 1, 2026, ensuring a time-limited review of pandemic-related educational challenges.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S834