MONTGOMERY – Valley Central High School sophomores Isabella Satkowski and Rachel Grazier are working with Assemblyman Brian Maher (R,C-Walden) to draft the New York Innovative Learning Models Act.
The legislation seeks to establish a competitive grant program to support the development and implementation of flexible, hands-on, and inclusive learning models in schools statewide. Through their advocacy, Isabella and Rachel have engaged with students and educators at multiple levels, emphasizing the value of interactive, project-based, and experiential learning.
“We’ve seen firsthand how hands-on learning helps bridge gaps for students with learning differences,” Satkowski said. “Our hope is that by increasing these opportunities, all students—especially those with disabilities—will benefit from a richer, more accessible education.”
Key provisions of the act include:
- Grants for schools and eligible organizations to develop and scale innovative learning models targeting underserved populations, including children with disabilities;
- Support for professional development, technology integration, and curriculum redesign to foster more inclusive and adaptive classrooms;
- Rigorous evaluation and reporting to ensure accountability and continuous improvement in student academic achievement, college and career readiness, and equitable access; and
- A commitment to sharing successful models and best practices statewide through reports and educational conferences.
“By collaborating with policymakers, we’re giving a voice to students and helping shape an educational future where everyone has the tools to succeed,” Grazier said.
The legislation is set to be introduced in the coming weeks. Both Grazier and Satkowski are members of the Valley Central chapter of Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA).
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