NY A05243

Directs the Department of Education to establish a peer mentoring pilot program in all public high schools throughout New York State

Requires preparatory work before the 2026-2027 school year including reviewing existing mentoring programs, collecting evidence-based research, developing recruitment plans, and creating screening tools and training materials

Mandates program implementation during 2026-2027 including two-hour virtual staff training, creation of trainer teams, use of the Search Institute's developmental relationships framework, and ongoing enrichment training in areas like listening skills and addressing challenging behaviors

Requires a post-program assessment with recommendations to be submitted to the commissioner, along with a report to the governor and legislative leaders by August 31, 2027

Takes effect immediately and expires January 1, 2028