New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S06617

Introduced
3/18/25  
Refer
3/18/25  

Caption

Requires climate change instruction within the current established science curriculum; requires such instruction be taught in grades one through twelve.

Summary

Bill S06617 proposes to amend the education law in New York to mandate the inclusion of climate change education within the existing science curriculum for public schools. The bill requires that climate change instruction be provided for students in grades one through twelve, ensuring that all public school students receive education on this critical topic. The implementation of this instruction is to begin in the school year following the certification by the commissioner of education that the necessary curriculum has been established.

Impact

The passage of this bill would significantly impact the education system in New York by formalizing climate change education as a requirement in public schools. This would necessitate the development of new curriculum materials and training for educators, as well as the allocation of resources to facilitate effective teaching. The bill aims to enhance students' understanding of climate change, its causes, and its effects, thereby preparing them to engage with environmental issues in their future.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S06617 appears to be generally supportive, particularly among advocates for environmental education and climate action. Discussions indicate a recognition of the importance of educating the younger generation about climate change, although specific voting history and committee discussions are not available to provide a detailed sentiment analysis.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support, there may be points of contention regarding the allocation of resources for implementing the new curriculum and the potential pushback from those who may view climate change education as politically charged. Some stakeholders may argue about the appropriateness of mandating such instruction in schools, raising concerns about the curriculum's content and its alignment with existing educational standards.

Companion Bills

NY A08458

Same As Requires climate change instruction within the current established science curriculum; requires such instruction be taught in grades one through twelve.

Previously Filed As

NY A08458

Requires climate change instruction within the current established science curriculum; requires such instruction be taught in grades one through twelve.

NY HB1037

Science SOL & Curriculum Framework; instructional material to include climate change, etc.

NY HB1037

An Act to direct the Board of Education, during its next regularly scheduled revision of the Science Standards of Learning and Curriculum Framework, to include in such Science Standards of Learning and Curriculum Framework instructional materials on climate change and environmental literacy and provide guidance to school boards on the selection of such instructional materials.

NY A1713

Requires instruction on cursive handwriting in public school curriculum for grades three through five.

NY HB1927

Relating to the instructional materials for certain curriculum in public schools, including certain instructional prohibitions and requirements regarding those materials.

NY S10004

Requires LGBT awareness curriculum or instruction.

NY S3773

Requires school programs of virtual or remote instruction to be implemented primarily through use of virtual instructional sessions.

NY HB584

Public education; screen-based instruction limited in kindergarten through fifth grade, State Board of Education required to adopt standards, Instructional Technology Task Force established

NY HF253

A bill for an act relating to computer science instruction, including by modifying provisions related to the graduation requirements, the computer science instruction provided by students enrolled in grades nine through twelve, computer science instruction endorsements and authorizations issued by the board of educational examiners, and the computer science professional development incentive fund.

NY SF3176

Water safety instruction requirement in health curriculum

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.