NY S05509

Commissioner of education shall establish a 12-member online learning advisory committee in consultation with the New York state broadband program office, energy research and development authority, and public service commission.

Committee members shall be appointed by the commissioner, with three members each recommended by the governor, temporary president of the senate, and speaker of the assembly, based on demonstrated experience in online education, rural education delivery, school administration, accreditation, higher education, or certified teaching.

Committee shall develop recommendations including definitions of online and blended learning, connecting modules for a statewide system, model school district policies, best practices, implementation guidelines, funding opportunities, regulatory development, and technology support for remote and underrepresented areas.

Committee shall convene by August 1, 2013, submit a preliminary report by January 1, 2014, and submit a final report by October 1, 2014, to the governor, legislative leaders, and chairs of the legislative commission on rural resources development.

Committee members receive no compensation but are reimbursed for actual and necessary expenses incurred in performing their duties.