New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A01855

Introduced
1/14/25  
Refer
1/14/25  

Caption

Relates to requiring the department of education to provide school districts with a list of resources and instructional materials on media literacy; defines terms.

Summary

Bill A01855 proposes an amendment to the education law in New York, specifically requiring the Department of Education to provide school districts with a comprehensive list of resources and instructional materials focused on media literacy. The bill defines key terms such as 'digital citizenship' and 'media literacy,' emphasizing the importance of equipping students with the skills necessary to navigate the digital landscape responsibly. The Department of Education is tasked with making these resources available on its website by July 1, 2026, which includes professional development programs for teachers to enhance their instructional capabilities in this area.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would formally integrate media literacy into the educational framework of New York State, potentially influencing curriculum development and instructional practices across school districts. It aims to foster a generation of students who are not only consumers of media but also critical thinkers and responsible digital citizens. This could lead to changes in how media literacy is taught and assessed in schools, aligning educational standards with contemporary digital challenges.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A01855 appears to be generally supportive, as discussions highlight the increasing importance of media literacy in today's technology-driven society. Stakeholders recognize the need for educational institutions to adapt to the changing media landscape, suggesting a collective acknowledgment of the bill's relevance and necessity.

Contention

While there is broad support for enhancing media literacy education, some points of contention may arise regarding the implementation and funding of the proposed resources and professional development programs. Critics may question whether the Department of Education has the capacity to effectively manage and disseminate these materials, as well as concerns about the adequacy of training for teachers in this new area of instruction.

Companion Bills

NY S07891

Same As Relates to requiring the department of education to provide school districts with a list of resources and instructional materials on media literacy; defines terms.

Previously Filed As

NY S07891

Relates to requiring the department of education to provide school districts with a list of resources and instructional materials on media literacy; defines terms.

NY A01452

Relates to requiring the department of education to provide school districts with a list of resources and instructional materials on media literacy; defines terms.

NY AB2452

Curriculum frameworks: instructional materials evaluation criteria: media literacy.

NY H3264

Media Literacy and Critical Thinking Pilot Program

NY SB839

In terms and courses of study, providing for media literacy education.

NY HB332

In terms and courses of study, providing for media literacy education.

NY AB1121

Early literacy: professional development: instructional materials.

NY HB2176

In terms and courses of study, providing for social media literacy education.

NY S462

Establishing media literacy education in schools to ensure all children are learning to analyze, evaluate and responsibly use the media

NY SB2787

Relating to digital citizenship and media literacy instruction in public schools and a public school policy regarding Internet safety.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.