Bill > S06236

This bill modifies existing education law by delaying the implementation timeline for class size reduction plans in New York City school districts with over one million inhabitants. Instead of beginning in September 2023 and achieving targets by 2028, the new plan will start in September 2031 and be fully implemented by September 2036. The bill expands class size reduction exemptions to include additional types of schools and programs, specifically gifted and talented schools, screened admissions schools, portfolio and specialized high schools, and advanced placement classes. The existing class size targets remain the same: 20 students per class for kindergarten through third grade, 23 students per class for fourth through eighth grade, and 25 students per class for high school, with physical education and performing groups allowed up to 40 students. Importantly, the bill now requires that parents be included through school leadership teams in discussions and decisions about class size exemptions. Each year, an additional 20% of classrooms (excluding special education classes) must comply with the targets, with priority given to schools serving higher-poverty populations. If the chancellor and collective bargaining unit presidents cannot agree on exemptions within 30 days, an arbitrator will make the final determination.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6236