Bill > S07386

This bill establishes the New York Living Schoolyards Act, which creates a competitive grant program to help schools transform outdoor spaces into living schoolyards - park-like environments that enhance ecological systems, provide hands-on learning opportunities, and support student health and well-being. The program will provide grants between $25,000 and $100,000 to eligible entities like school districts, local education agencies, and nonprofits, with funds to be used for planning, designing, and constructing outdoor learning spaces. Grant applicants must provide details about participating schools, student demographics, projected participation, accessibility considerations, and a comprehensive master plan that includes ecological goals, educational objectives, and long-term maintenance strategies. The master plan can include components like food gardens, wildlife habitats, hands-on learning areas, art spaces, native tree planting, and natural playgrounds. Recipients must match 20% of the grant amount, though this requirement can be waived for schools with a high percentage of students eligible for free or reduced-price lunch. The program will operate from July 2027 to June 2031, with $150 million appropriated to support these initiatives. The bill also requires the commissioner to maintain a clearinghouse of information about outdoor learning spaces to help support implementation.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S7386