BILL NUMBER: S2505
SPONSOR: BRISPORT
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to establish a task force on educator diversity in New York
state; and providing for the repeal of such provisions upon expiration
thereof
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section one of the bill establishes a task force on educator diversity.
The purpose of the task force shall be to conduct a comprehensive study
on the diversity of educators in New York State, actions taken to
promote educator diversity, and ways New York State can encourage new
initiatives to enhance and promote educator diversity.
Section two of the bill states that the task force shall be comprised of
thirteen members, and confers appointment powers.
Section three of the bill states that the task force shall issue a
report by December 31, 2024.
Section four of the bill establishes the effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
Studies have shown that students benefit when they see themselves
reflected in the teachers who instruct them. New York, despite its rich
diversity, is experiencing a lack of diversity among its educators. This
bill seeks to address the issues surrounding the lack of teacher diver-
sity in New York State. Specifically, this bill will require New York to
conduct a comprehensive study on teacher diversity in New York State,
and offer recommendations to encourage students of color to enter the
teaching profession, including improving recruitment and retention
efforts. The legislation will also review the barriers that are prevent-
ing students of color from entering the teaching professions. Finally,
the bill also studies initiatives that encourage teachers of color to
become school leaders and administrators.
 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
2021-22: S.2555; 2023-24: S3385
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS FOR STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS:
None.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately, and shall expire and be deemed
repealed January 31, 2027.