Bill > S06783

This bill amends the education law to promote the inclusion of homeless children in prekindergarten (pre-K) programs by requiring school districts to prioritize these children on waitlists when class sizes have reached their maximum capacity. Specifically, when a pre-K class is full, school districts must give priority enrollment to homeless children who are currently living in temporary housing such as motels, hotels, or shelters. Additionally, if a school district needs to hire additional staff to accommodate a homeless child's enrollment, the state education department will reimburse the district for the direct cost of hiring these staff members. The bill defines homeless children according to existing legal definitions and aims to ensure that children experiencing housing instability have better access to early childhood education. The legislation will take effect 90 days after becoming law, with provisions allowing for immediate preparation of necessary regulations to implement the act.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6783