Directs the commissioner of education to establish an online learning committee to make recommendations for establishment of a statewide online and blended learning program

BILL NUMBER:S5509C

Title of bill

An act to direct the commissioner of education to establish an online learning advisory committee to make recommendations on establishing a statewide online and blended learning program; and providing for the repeal of such provisions upon expiration thereof

Purpose

This bill directs the Commissioner of Education to establish an online learning committee to make recommendation for establishment of a statewide online and blended learning program.

Summary of provisions

Section 1 sets forth the legislative intent.

Section 2 sets forth guidelines to be followed by the commissioner of education, in consultation with the New York state broadband program office, New York .State Energy Research and Development Agency, and the New York State Public Services Commission, to establish an online learning advisory committee, consisting of eleven members, that will make recommendations relating to the implementation of a online and blending learning program using specific considerations.

Section 3 directs the advisory committee to submit a final report must be submitted to the Executive, legislature and Chairs of the legislative Commission on Rural Resources by October 1, 2015.

Section 4 sets an immediate effective date.

Justification

Rural and geographically isolated schools have faced significant fiscal challenges in recent years. Many school budgets have included difficult choices to cut programming. With dwindling course offerings, many students are unable to receive an education that is competitive in the job market or when vying for acceptance at a college.

However, today's technology-driven world has proven that a classroom is no longer limited to a single location. Pockets of programs across the state offer students the opportunity to access a multitude of course offerings and learning structures.

By enabling a cohesive program for virtual and online learning statewide, students will receive a more robust quality education, gain critical experience with technology, and ultimately become more viable in an increasingly competitive marketplace. Virtual education has the opportunity to provide equal education for all students, from those living in the Adirondacks to those tucked away in western New York.

The legislation directs the Commissioner of Education, in conjunction with the New York State Broadband Program Office, NYSERDA and the Public Service Commission, to establish an Online Learning Advisory Committee and to make recommendations regarding the development and delivery of such services. Ultimately, the goal is to bring the findings and subsequent recommendations to the Executive and the Legislature to be considered for inclusion in the 2015-2016 executive

budget so that we may better prepare students across the state to meet the demands of our 21st century world.

Legislative history

2013: S.5509-A PASSED SENATE

Fiscal implications

Undetermined

Local fiscal implications

None.

Effective date

Immediately with provisions.