NY A08162

Establishes a commission for the educational advancement of multilingual learners to study best practices for closing achievement gaps and improving high school graduation rates between multilingual learners and English proficient peers from prekindergarten through 12th grade

Commission composed of 9 members appointed by the governor (2), speaker of the assembly (2), temporary president of the senate (2), commissioner of education (2), and the chancellor of the board of regents (1)

Membership must include specialists in ESOL/bilingual programs, teachers experienced with multilingual students, early childhood multilingual education professionals, newcomer/graduation specialists, and education equity experts

Commission granted powers of a legislative committee to conduct studies, hold public hearings, and meet within or outside the state, with staff support from the Department of Education

Report with findings and legislative recommendations due to the governor, legislative leaders, and education officials by December 31, 2025, with the act expiring 2 years after enactment