The new school year comes with lots of new changes across New York City as students head back to the classrooms.

School communities have faced many challenges over the last two school years from the twists and turns of the COVID-19 pandemic to gun violence in schools. Parents tell News 12 that safety is their top priority.

There are 850 school safety agents being hired for this school year, with 200 of them starting today.

Masks will continue to be optional for students this school year. COVID-19 vaccines will not be required for students, unless they play sports or certain extracurricular activities.

Students can come back to school just five days after testing positive. In these cases, they will have to wear a mask, but the entire class won’t be sent home to isolate.

The mayor also highlighted a number of new changes including new specialized dyslexia programs launching at two schools and a notification system through which parents can get real-time alerts if an emergency happens on campus.