Bill > A04820

This bill requires school districts and boards of cooperative educational services (BOCES) to implement new employment and professional development standards for physical therapists and occupational therapists who work in schools. Specifically, these districts and BOCES must categorize and pay physical therapists and occupational therapists in accordance with the state education department's career ladder pathway framework, which is likely a structured approach to recognizing professional growth and expertise. The bill also mandates that these school districts and BOCES offer therapists school leadership opportunities that are developed collaboratively to support professional learning, advancement, and systematic implementation of educational support systems. Additionally, the bill amends existing education law to explicitly include physical and occupational therapists in the list of health and welfare services that can be provided to students, expanding the scope of support services available in both public and non-public schools. The new provisions will take effect on the first day of July following the bill's enactment, providing school districts time to prepare for and implement these changes.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4820