Bill > A08395

This bill amends the existing education law to authorize school districts with more eligible prekindergarten children than available seats to use a weighted selection process that prioritizes two specific groups of children: those who would be eligible for free or reduced price lunch (a measure of economic disadvantage) and emergent multilingual learners (students learning English as a second language). Under this new provision, when a school district has more eligible children than seats available, they can first enroll children from these priority groups. If there are still more priority group children than seats, the district must then use a random selection method to determine final enrollment. This approach aims to provide additional educational opportunities for economically disadvantaged children and those who are developing English language skills by giving them a better chance of accessing prekindergarten programs. The bill allows districts to implement this prioritization while maintaining an element of fairness through random selection when necessary, and it takes effect immediately upon passage.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8395