NY S08515

Allows the Commissioner of Education to issue superintendent certificates to exceptionally qualified persons who lack required graduate courses or teaching experience, but only with approval from a new review panel in cities with populations of one million or more.

Creates a 13-member review panel consisting of the NYC Comptroller, Public Advocate, 2 mayoral designees, 1 designee from each borough president, and 1 designee each from the Senate Temporary President, Assembly Speaker, Senate Minority Leader, and Assembly Minority Leader.

Panel members receive no compensation but are entitled to reimbursement for actual expenses, and must vote on waiver requests within 30 days with approval requiring a simple majority vote.

Appropriates $25,000 to the Department of Education for implementation of the act.

Takes effect July 1 following enactment, with authorization for immediate development of necessary rules and regulations.