October 2022

Happy National Principals Month! I'd like to take a moment to express my appreciation for the leadership of our school principals. Thank you to all our principals for everything they do, not only this month but throughout the year, to help the children of New York State grow and thrive. All month, we are recognizing principals on our social media channels (Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn). Follow along with us, and don't forget to thank your principal!

October is also New York State History Month, and the New York State Museum is working to promote the education and appreciation of New York State’s rich and complex history. In addition to hosting in-person events throughout October, the Museum has created a dedicated New York State History Month web page with many resources to explore, including the podcast “A New York Minute in History,” a special “This Day in NY History” feature, educator guides, a list of events happening statewide, and much more. I encourage you to explore all of the resources that the Museum has to offer and learn about the fascinating history of our state!

The U.S. Department of Education (USDE) approved the State Education Department’s plan to restart the federally required accountability system for the 2022-23 school year based upon 2021-22 school year results. The accountability plan addresses disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and modifies accountability indicators and processes to best support New York’s schools.

The full text of the accountability plan addendum and resources for districts are posted on NYSED’s school and district accountability webpage.

Comments on the proposed regulations will be accepted through December 19, 2022, and may be emailed to REGCOMMENTS@nysed.gov.

The New York State Office of Information Technology Services (NYS ITS) will hold a virtual public hearing examining the use of biometric identifying technology in schools. The meeting will be held online on October 20, 2022, at 5:30 PM via Webex. During the hearing, NYS ITS staff will provide a brief overview of the topic, and members of the public are invited to testify for up to three minutes. For more information and additional ways to participate, read the full meeting notice.

The survey on the use of biometric identifying technology in education will be open until October 28, 2022.

In recognition of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) throughout October, the State Education Department is honoring 75 businesses across the state that do an outstanding job of employing individuals with disabilities. This year’s theme, “Disability: Part of the Equity Equation,” recognizes the crucial role people with disabilities play in a diverse and inclusive workforce. Virtual events will be held throughout the month to recognize the employers.

Statewide winners include Advance Auto Parts, FLIK Hospitality Group at Cravath, Morrison Living, LandPro Equipment, Second Act Management LLC, DBA Honey Baked Ham Company, Partnership for Inclusive Internship (PII), and Hatfield Metal Fabrication. Congratulations to all of our winners!