NYKids Deep Dive Podcast: Insights from Bob Schneider, Executive Director of NYSSBA
We’re excited to announce a new episode of NYKids Deep Dive! Our podcast features the voices of educators, researchers, and advocates for high-quality educational opportunities from across New York State.
In this podcast, NYKids Graduate Assistant Paul Guay and NYKids Director Kristen C. Wilcox hosted Bob Schneider, Executive Director of the New York State School Boards Association (NYSSBA). NYSSBA is one of NYKids’ valued Advisory Board organizations, and Bob provided insights into what NYSSBA is focusing its attention on right now.
School Board Challenges and NYSSBA Priorities
Bob Schneider shared several key challenges and priorities that NYSSBA is currently addressing:
Funding Issues
One of the primary concerns for school boards is funding. The foundation aid formula, which is intended to ensure equitable distribution of state education funds, has been a topic of ongoing debate in New York state. Currently, there is a significant focus on federal funding uncertainties, especially in light of recent changes and challenges
Electric Buses Initiative
Governor Hochul’s proposal to convert to all electric school buses by 2035 is another major issue for School Boards. While this initiative aims to reduce environmental impact, it poses logistical challenges, particularly in rural areas.
Declining Student Enrollment
Rural schools are facing a decline in student enrollment, which impacts funding and resource allocation. This trend necessitates strategic planning to ensure that educational quality and access are maintained despite demographic shifts
Staffing Shortages
Teacher shortages, especially in specialized areas such as English as a New Language (ENL), are a pressing concern. NYSSBA is actively working on strategies to attract and retain qualified educators to address these gaps.
Summing up
Bob Schneider’s insights highlight the multifaceted challenges that school boards face and the proactive steps NYSSBA is taking to address them. From funding issues to environmental initiatives and staffing shortages, NYSSBA is committed to supporting school boards in navigating these complexities to provide high-quality education for all students.
Hanson Robotics has granted permission for NYKids to post the video link of Bob’s interview with Sophia the Robot – watch here!
We welcome you to listen in to the entire conversation on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
You can keep up with NYKids’ latest research and school improvement work by visiting our website and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
As always, we welcome your comments or questions at nykids@albany.edu.
