Feb 19th, 2026Addressing Performance Concerns with Probationary Employees
It may be necessary to counsel, or even discipline, employees during a probationary period. The question then becomes, can or should counseling or discipline during a probationary period be a consideration when rendering a determination on tenure for an instructional employee, or for permanent appointment of a non-instructional employee?
Feb 19th, 2026State Comptroller Opens New Year with Financial Management Audit
The New York State Comptroller has opened the new year by releasing a financial management audit of one of the State’s city school districts (the “District”), reviewing the District’s handling of fund balance and reserve funds from July 1, 2019, through June 30, 2024. The audit was very critical of the District’s budgeting practices.
Jan 29th, 2026Strengthening and Protecting District Finances by Implementing Reserve Plans
Reserve plans play a major role in supporting a school district’s long term financial planning and secure financial standing. Creating reserve funds is a way to plan ahead and incrementally save money for expected future events. Reserve funds help mitigate the financial impact of major, nonrecurring or unforeseen expenditures of a school district’s operating budget.
Jan 29th, 2026New York Updates Teacher Tenure Rules and Areas
In June 2025, the New York State Education Department and Board of Regents proposed changes to teacher tenure rules and tenure areas. The changes to the tenure areas became effective October 22, 2025. These changes aim to modernize classifications and streamline the tenure process for public school teachers. Additionally, several tenure areas have been removed. All of these changes apply only to new probationary appointments; existing tenure status remains unaffected.
Dec 18th, 2025Changes To Reorganizational Meeting Scheduling Requirements And Other Upcoming Calendar Issues For School Districts
A recent amendment to the Education Law will allow school districts more flexibility in preparing for and scheduling their annual reorganizational board meeting in July each year. Specifically, on November 21, 2025, the Governor signed Chapter Law 515, which amends several sections of the Education Law applicable to central, union free, and city school districts in the State.
Dec 18th, 2025The Second Circuit Clarifies Student Free Speech Rights Involving Social Media and Off Campus Conduct
The relationship between social media, discipline, and student free speech rights continues to evolve. The Supreme Court has noted that, “in light of the special characteristics of the school environment,” a school has the right to place some limits on students’ speech beyond those that would be permissible outside of the school context.
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