BILL NUMBER: S6236
SPONSOR: CHAN
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the education law, in relation to delaying the implemen-
tation of class size reduction plans and including additional exemptions
to class size targets
 
PURPOSE:
To provide additional flexibility in the implementation of class size
reductions, ensuring that high-demand programs and schools are not
adversely impacted, and that communities have adequate time and input in
the process.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
*Section 1 amends the Education Law to, delay compliance with class size
reductions indefinitely for overcrowded programs, schools, or districts
until such time as additional space can be identified, designed, funded,
and constructed.
*Section 2 adds additional exemptions to the class size reduction
mandates, specifically including:
(1) Gifted & Talented Programs
(2) Screened Admission Schools and Programs
(3) Portfolio and Specialized High Schools Advanced Placement (AP)
Classes
*Section 3 requires that parents, through School Leadership Teams
(SLTs), be included in discussions regarding class size exernptions at
their respective schools.
*Section 4 establishes the effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
The implementation of class size mandates under S9460 presents numerous
logistical challenges that could negatively impact students, particular-
ly in high-demand programs and over-enrolled districts. While reducing
class sizes is a worthy goal, current implementation timelines and rigid
mandates fail to account for the following realities:
1. High-Demand Schools and Programs: Gifted and Talented programs,
specialized high schools, and Advanced Placement courses often serve
larger class sizes to meet demand. Mandating smaller class sizes in
these settings would limit enrollment and deny access to academically
qualified students.
2. Space Limitations: Many schools, particularly in growing communities
such as northeast Queens and south Brooklyn, lack the physical space to
create additional classrooms. Without proper expansion, class size
mandates will lead to student displacement, school rezonings, or the use
of trailers for classrooms.
3. Negative Impact on Families: Many families rely on their zoned neigh-
borhood schools, which may exceed mandated class size limits. Enforcing
reductions could force children to attend schools further from their
homes, disrupting communities.
4. Extended Planning and Construction Timeframes: The process of site
selection, community engagement, and school construction requires years
of planning. The current deadlines do not reflect the realities of
school development and risk leading to rushed, suboptimal solutions.
5. Lack of Parent Representation: Under current law, parents are not
included in class size exemption decisions. Including parent voices
through SLTs ensures that the needs of local communities are considered.
By delaying the timeline and allowing targeted exemptions, this bill
balances the goal of smaller class sizes with the realities of school
capacity, program demand, and parental input.
 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
Amends S9460 (2022) and S843 (2023).
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
Minimizing rushed compliance costs while ensuring that funds are avail-
able for thoughtful school expansion and development.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately upon passage.