The New York State Education Department is a department of the New York state government that oversees education in the state. They are responsible for setting education policy, developing curriculum standards, and administering state and federal education programs. The department also licenses and certifies teachers and other education professionals. They work closely with local school districts to ensure that all students in the state have access to a high-quality education. The New York State Education Department was established in 1904, and has since played a key role in shaping education policy in the state.