ECSheading
From the ECS State Policy Database
New Jersey


Education Commission of the States • 700 Broadway, Suite 810 • Denver, CO 80203-3442 • 303.299.3600 • fax 303.296.8332 • www.ecs.org

This database is made possible by your state's fiscal support of the Education Commission of the States (ECS). Most entries are legislative, although rules/regulations and executive orders that make substantive changes are included. Every effort is made to collect the latest available version of policies; in some instances, recent changes might not be reflected. For expediency purposes minimal attention has been paid to style (capitalization, punctuation) and format.

Please cite use of the database as: Education Commission of the States (ECS) State Policy Database, retrieved [date].

Issue Status/Date Level Summary

Finance--District


Signed into law 08/2012

P-12

Provides supplemental appropriation of $4.141 million from Property Tax Relief Fund to the Department of Education for aid to school districts with significant enrollment growth.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2012/Bills/AL12/37_.PDF
Title: S 1792
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/

Teaching Quality--Evaluation and Effectiveness


Signed into law 08/2012

P-12

Creates the Teacher Effectiveness and Accountability for the Children of New Jersey (TEACHNJ) Act.

Defines "evaluation" as a process based on the individual's job description, professional standards and Statewide evaluation criteria that incorporates analysis of multiple measures of student progress and multiple data sources. Such evaluation shall include formal observations, as well as post conferences, conducted and prepared by an individual employed in the district in a supervisory role and capacity and possessing a school administrator certificate, principal certificate, or supervisor certificate.

Defines "multiple objective measures of student learning" as the results of formal and informal assessments of students.  Such measures may include a combination of, but are not limited to: teacher-set goals for student learning; student performance assessments, including portfolio projects, problem-solving protocols, and internships; teacher-developed assessments; standardized assessments; and district-established assessments.

Requires a teacher, in order to achieve tenure, to complete a district mentorship program during the initial year of employment and receive a rating of effective or highly effective in two annual summative evaluations within the first three years of employment after the initial year of employment in which the teacher completes the district mentorship program. 

Requires that a principal, assistant principal, and vice-principal, in order to achieve tenure, receive a rating of effective or highly effective in two annual summative evaluations within the first three years of employment with the first effective rating being received on or after the completion of the second year of employment.

Defines "effective" or "highly effective" as receiving an annual summative evaluation rating of "effective" or "highly effective" based on the performance standards for a position established through the evaluation rubric adopted by the board of education and approved by the commissioner.

Requires the State Board of Education to set standards for teacher evaluation rubrics including a provision that multiple measures of practice and student learning be used in conjunction with professional standards of practice using a comprehensive evaluation process in rating effectiveness with specific measures and implementation processes.  Provides that standardized assessments be used as a measure of student progress but not be the predominant factor in the overall evaluation of a teacher.

http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2012/Bills/AL12/26_.HTM
Title: S 1455
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/

School/District Structure/Operations--Transportation


Signed into law 07/2012

P-12

Requires school buses transporting certain disabled persons to use flashing lights and establishes penalties for drivers who fail to yield.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2012/Bills/AL12/20_.PDF
Title: S 618
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/

Postsecondary Affordability


Signed into law 05/2012

Postsec.

Revises the NJ STARS II Program such that the program covers only tuition (no fees) in the amount of $1,250 per semester (previously up to $3,500 per semester) to four-year public or independent institutions (previously only public). Changes the percentage of the scholarship paid by the state to 100% from 50% (50% previously paid by the public institution of higher education).

Deletes the requirement that the amount of the scholarship awarded for the third academic year of study be based on the student's cumulative grade point average upon graduation from the county college. Deletes the requirement that the amount of the scholarship awarded for the fourth academic year of study be based on the student's grade point average during the third academic year of study.

http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2012/Bills/AL12/8_.PDF
Title: S 874
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/

Teaching Quality--Certification and Licensure


Signed into law 05/2012

P-12

Directs the Commissioner of Education shall establish a program to issue subject area endorsements in mathematics, the
sciences, or in any subject area in which there is a shortage of teachers to certificated teaching staff members who do not currently have a subject area endorsement in those fields.

Requires staff to (1) pass the appropriate State test of subject matter knowledge; and (2) meet other criteria set forth by the commissioner.

Provides that the program be subject to oversight by the commissioner, including routine reviews and the elimination of subject areas for which endorsements are available under the program. Requires the elimination of a subject area be based on the classroom performance of the teachers who have received endorsements in the subject area under the program or the fact that the subject area no longer has a shortage of teachers.

http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2012/Bills/AL12/11_.PDF
Title: A 2311
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Special Populations--Military


Signed into law 04/2012

Postsec.

Establishes a four-year "VETeach Pilot Program" pilot to facilitate the teacher certification of veterans.

Provides that Richard Stockton College of New Jersey will enroll in a 36-month teacher preparation program, a single cohort of students who are veterans of the United States Armed Forces and who served on or after September 11, 2001. The program shall lead to a baccalaureate degree and completion of the requirements necessary to apply to the State Board of Examiners for a certificate of eligibility with advanced standing.

Provides that a certificate of eligibility with advanced standing issued to a student who completes the pilot program shall authorize the student to seek employment as a teacher in grades K through 8, and in certain secondary education fields.

Requires that, upon the conclusion of the pilot program, the commissioner shall report to the Governor and the Legislature on the number of veterans who enrolled in the teacher preparation program, the number of those veterans who were hired as teachers in public or nonpublic schools, and the advisability of the establishment of similar programs on a permanent basis.

http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2012/Bills/AL12/2_.PDF
Title: S 1026
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/

School Safety--Bullying Prevention/Conflict Resolution


Signed into law 03/2012

P-12

Provides that, in the event that the necessary programs and services such counseling, support services, intervention services, and other programs are not available within a district, the district may apply to the Department of Education for a grant from the Bullying Prevention Fund to support the provision of out-of-district programs and services.

Provides that a school district may implement no cost bullying prevention programs and approaches that may be available from the Department of Education, the New Jersey State Bar Foundation, or any other entity. A school district may, at its own discretion, implement bullying prevention programs and approaches which impose a cost on the district. A school district may apply to the Department of Education for a grant to fund programs, approaches, or personnel only after exploring bullying prevention programs and approaches that are available at no cost, and making an affirmative demonstration of that exploration in a grant application.

Clarifies that required training on district's harassment, intimidation, or bullying policies can be no cost training provided by the Department of Education, the New Jersey State Bar Foundation, or any other entity.

http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2012/Bills/AL12/1_.PDF
Title: A 2709
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/

Finance--Funding Formulas


Issued 02/2012

P-12

Creates the New Jersey Education Funding Task Force to examine the state's school funding formula and identify areas that may be susceptible to fraud or subject to outside manipulation. Additionally, the Task Force is directed to consider: (a) economically effective measures of student poverty; (b) educationally sound measures of defining at-risk students; (c) appropriate adjustments to the SFRA to account for municipal property ratable bases that may be artificially deflated as a result of municipal property tax abatements.

The Task Force shall consist of seven individuals from both inside and outside government who have knowledge or expertise in the areas of education funding, policy, administration, governance, and fiscal management.

The Task Force shall issue a final report to the Governor setting no later than 120 days after organizing. The report shall be provided to the Legislature and shall be made available to the public.The Task Force shall expire upon the issuance of its final report.

http://nj.gov/infobank/circular/eocc89.pdf
Title: E.O. 89
Source: http://www.state.nj.us/governor/

Students--Athletics/Extracurricular Activities


Signed into law 01/2012

P-12

Requires DOE to include cheerleaders in the student-athlete head injury safety program.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2010/Bills/PL11/168_.PDF
Title: A 4008
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bills/

P-3 Governance


Issued 10/2011

P-12

Creates the New Jersey Commission for Early Learning and Development.

Identifies five members of the Commission: Commissioner of the Department of Education; the Commissioner of the Department of Children and Families or her designee; the Commissioner of the Department of Health and Senior Services or her designee; the Commissioner of the Department of Human Services or her designee; and the chairperson of the New Jersey Council for Young Children.

Charges the Commission with with recommending improvements to the quality of, and access to, early learning and development programs in the State of New Jersey in the most cost-effective manner possible. Including the following tasks:
1. Review existing programs and budgets across the Departments of Education, Children and Families, Health and Senior Services, and Human Services and determine the best way to coordinate those programs and budgets, as well as the delivery of services, to expand the number of high-quality early learning and development programs in New Jersey in the most cost-effective manner possible;
2. Identify ways to promote New Jersey's Quality Rating Improvement System, Grow NJ, in order to provide parents with meaningful information on the quality of early learning and development programs throughout the State;
3. Enhance curricular and other supports for early childhood educators by, among other things, developing best practices and training modules and disseminating those practices and modules to early learning and development programs;
4. Coordinate social, health, and family supports for children with high needs enrolled in early learning and development programs by, to the extent permitted by Federal and State law, integrating data systems maintained by the Departments of Education, Children and Families, Health and Senior Services, and Human Services connected to early childhood programs; and
5. Regularly consult with the New Jersey Council for Young Children and the Coordinating Council for Part C of IDEA in discharging the above-enumerated duties.

http://nj.gov/infobank/circular/eocc77.pdf
Title: E.O. 77
Source: http://nj.gov/

State Policymaking--Task Forces/Commissions


Issued 10/2011

P-12

Creates a State Strategic Plan Steering Committee ("Steering Committee") to work closely with the SPC and OPA to ensure that relevant State departments and agencies incorporate the goals, objectives, and values of a new SPCadopted State Plan into Department Strategic Plans and relevant regulations, programs, policies, and operations. Identifies cabinet members, responsibilities and duties.
http://nj.gov/infobank/circular/eocc78.pdf
Title: E.O. 78
Source: http://nj.gov/

Curriculum--Health/Nutrition Education


Signed into law 05/2011

P-12

Directs the Department of Education to develop a school district dating violence policy and requires school districts to provide dating violence education in the health curriculum. Requires the DOE to recommend educational resources on dating violence and shall post these materials on its website.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2010/Bills/PL11/64_.PDF
Title: A 2920
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bills/

Governance--School Boards


Signed into law 05/2011

P-12

Disqualifies member of board of education or member of charter school board of trustees for conviction of certain crimes and requires member to undergo criminal history background investigation.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2010/Bills/PL11/72_.PDF
Title: A 444
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/

Postsecondary


Issued 05/2011

Postsec.

Directs the Governor's Advisory Council on Higher Education to examine the financial disclosure requirements in the higher education community and make a recommendation to the Governor as to the appropriate level and content of financial disclosure applicable to the trustees of the State's College and University boards.
http://www.state.nj.us/infobank/circular/eocc64.pdf
Title: E.O. 64
Source: http://nj.gov/

Accountability


Issued 04/2011

P-12

Establishes the New Jersey Education Transformation Task Force. Charges the task force with reviewing all current administrative regulations that affect public education, and evaluating them to determine the degree to which they increase the quality of instruction for students, improve student academic achievement, improve teaching effectiveness, or improve the safety and well-being of students. Directs the task force to also review the statutes supporting these administrative regulations. Requires the task force to prepare recommendations for the governor and commissioner of education regarding all statutes and regulations that are overly prescriptive. Additionally directs the task force to review existing accountability systems and resulting incentive structures for public schools and districts, including the Quality Single Accountability Continuum ("Q SAC"). Directs the task force to provide recommendations to the governor on an accountability system that would give schools and districts greater autonomy while maintaining strict accountability measures in the areas of student performance, safety and fiscal responsibility.

Permits the task force to elicit public input from specified stakeholders. Directs the task force to issue an initial report to the governor by August 15, 2011, and to revise the recommendations as necessary based on comments from the public, stakeholders and the state board of education. Provides the task force will expire upon the governor's receipt of a report containing its final recommendations. Directs the task force to issue its final recommendations by December 31, 2011, to provide the final report to the legislature and state board, and make the report available to the general public.
http://nj.gov/infobank/circular/eocc58.pdf
Title: E.O. 58
Source: nj.gov/infobank

Postsecondary


Issued 01/2011

Postsec.,
Community College

Establishes the Governor's Higher Education Council, to: (a) serve as an advisory body to the Governor on higher education issues; (b) make recommendations to the Governor on higher education initiatives of statewide significance; and (c) provide advice to the Secretary of Higher Education and assist the Secretary in carrying out his or her duties. The Council may be tasked with other duties as requested by the Governor.
http://nj.gov/infobank/circular/eocc52.pdf
Title: E.O. 52
Source: http://nj.gov/

Postsecondary


Issued 01/2011

Postsec.,
Community College

Establishes the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey Advisory Committee. The Committee shall consist of up to five (5) members to be appointed by the Governor. These members shall include individuals from both inside and outside government who have knowledge or expertise in the areas of (a) administration, (b) public health, (c) medical, dental, nursing, or biomedical science education, and/or (d) related areas or subject matters. The Committee is charged with examining the delivery of graduate medical education in the state and developing recommendations for the Governor concerning this issue.
http://nj.gov/infobank/circular/eocc51.pdf
Title: E.O. 51
Source: http://nj.gov/

Choice of Schools--Choice/Open Enrollment


Signed into law 09/2010

P-12

Creates the permanent Interdistrict Public School Choice Program. Directs the commissioner to create a program that will allow districts to become "choice districts" and allow students from outside district boundaries to transfer into them. Addresses desegregation orders and transportation costs.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2010/Bills/AL10/65_.PDF
Title: A.B. 355
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Finance


Signed into law 09/2010

P-12

Clarifies that a school district is eligible to receive and use chapter 193 State funding to provide special education evaluation services to nonpublic school pupils who are not residents of the State.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2010/Bills/AL10/71_.HTM
Title: A.B. 2300
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

State Policymaking--Task Forces/Commissions


Issued 09/2010

P-12

Creates a New Jersey Educator Effectiveness Task Force for School and District-level education professionals. Charges the task force with developing recommendations on how best to measure the effectiveness of teachers and school leaders, based on defined parameters. Requires that the effectiveness recommendations include:
(1) Identified measures of student achievement — representing at least 50% of the teacher or school leader evaluation — which should be used for evaluating educator performance
(2) Demonstrated practices of effective teachers and leaders, which should comprise the remaining basis for such evaluations
(3) How these measures of effective practices should be weighted.

Directs the task force to provide the governor with its initial recommended effectiveness evaluation framework by March 2011. Provides the task force will expire upon the governor's receipt of a report containing its final recommendations. http://www.state.nj.us/governor/news/news/552010/pdf/EO-42.pdf
Title: E.O. 42
Source: www.state.nj.us

Accountability


Signed into law 05/2010

Postsec.,
Community College

Meant to ease restrictions on public-private partnerships between higher education institutions and private entities, encouraging flexibility in planning and growth at state and county colleges, and creating jobs.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2010/Bills/S1000/920_R3.HTM
Title: S.B. 920
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Postsecondary


Issued 05/2010

Postsec.,
Community College

Creates the New Jersey Higher Education Task Force. The Task Force will consist of up to 7 members appointed by the Governor who shall serve at his
pleasure. The Task Force is charged with developing recommendations for the Governor concerning the State's higher education system. In particular, the Task Force shall consider and make recommendations to improve the overall quality and effectiveness of the State's higher education system.
http://nj.gov/infobank/circular/eocc26.pdf
Title: E.O. 26
Source: whttp://nj.gov

Teaching Quality


Signed into law 02/2010

Postsec.

Requires certain conditions be met in order for school districts to provide their employees with tuition assistance for coursework or additional compensation upon acquisition of academic credits or completion of a degree program.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2010/Bills/S1000/826_I1.PDF
Title: S.B. 826
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/

Adult Basic Education


Signed into law 01/2010

Postsec.,
Community College

Dedicates a percentage of funds from the Supplemental Workforce Fund for Basic Skills to the State Community College Consortium for Workforce and Economic Development, a part of the Council of County Colleges, to provide basic skills training to qualified displaced, disadvantaged or employed workers.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2008/Bills/A4500/4325_R1.PDF
Title: A.B. 4325
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Adult Basic Education


Signed into law 01/2010

Postsec.,
Community College

Establishes NJ PLACE program to facilitate college credit for registered apprenticeship programs.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2008/Bills/A4500/4327_R1.PDF
Title: A.B. 4327
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Health


Signed into law 01/2010

Postsec.,
Community College

Establishes Task Force on Underage Drinking in Higher Education. Defines membership and duties of task force.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2010/Bills/A1500/1145_I1.PDF
Title: S.B. 2491
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Postsecondary Affordability--Financial Aid


Signed into law 01/2010

Postsec.,
Community College

Requires a member of the National Guard to apply for all tuition benefits available through U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in order to qualify for tuition-free enrollment at a public institution of higher education.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2008/Bills/A4500/4253_I1.PDF
Title: A.B. 4253
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Private Schools


Signed into law 01/2010

Postsec.

Revises the representation of proprietary schools on New Jersey Presidents' Council and on its executive board; provides that the presidents of all proprietary schools which have been authorized to offer licensed degree programs will serve as members of the New Jersey Presidents' Council; provides that one of the presidents of the proprietary schools which offer licensed degree programs will serve as a member of the executive board of the New Jersey Presidents' Council.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2008/Bills/A4500/4023_I1.PDF
Title: A.B. 4023
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Service-Learning


Signed into law 01/2010

P-12

Establishes in the Department of Education a four- year Community Service Phase Two Pilot Enhancement Program for high school juniors; provides for data collection.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2010/Bills/A1000/593_I1.PDF
Title: S.B. 2898
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/

Special Education


Signed into law 01/2010

P-12

Establishes New Jersey Special Education and Traumatic Brain Injury Task Force to study instructional practices and strategies that improve recognition of, and benefit students with, a traumatic brain injury and examine the ways in which current State policies affect this population. Defines membership and duties of the task force.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2008/Bills/A4500/4270_R1.PDF
Title: A.B. 4270
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Curriculum


Signed into law 06/2009

P-12

Establishes pilot program in Department of Education to provide instruction in personal finance to high school seniors.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2008/Bills/A2000/1943_I1.HTM
Title: A.B. 1943
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Postsecondary Students--Military


Signed into law 06/2009

Postsec.,
Community College

Establishes the Troops to College Program. Directs Commission on Higher Education, in consultation with the Department of Military and Veterans' Affairs, to establish the program to assist New Jersey's public institutions of higher education in coordinating the provision of a comprehensive array of services to assist veterans in making the transition into the college classroom. Services may include assistance in applying for state and federal student financial aid, counseling resources, a campus veterans' assistance officer to provide a single point of contact for information on the institution's benefits and programs for veterans, and an online resource to consolidate pertinent information specifically for veterans attending that institution.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2008/Bills/PL09/125_.HTM
Title: A.B. 3360/S.B. 2171
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Students--Athletics/Extracurricular Activities


Signed into law 06/2009

P-12

Directs the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association to establish adapted athletic programs.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2008/Bills/A1000/930_I1.HTM
Title: A.B. 930
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Accountability


Signed into law 03/2009

P-12

Requires the board of education of each former Abbott district, in conjunction with the local governing body of the municipality in which the district is located, to develop a plan for a comprehensive program of after school activities; provides for what shall be included within the plan.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2008/Bills/S1500/1175_I1.PDF
Title: S.B. 1175
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Teaching Quality--Recruitment and Retention--High-Needs Subjects


Signed into law 03/2009

P-12

Establishes a pilot program in Department of Education to address the state's shortage of mathematics and science teachers.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2008/Bills/S3000/2707_I1.PDF
Title: S.B. 2707
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

School/District Structure/Operations


Signed into law 12/2008

P-12

Permits board of trustees of school district pension fund in counties of the first class to invest 10 percent of funds in capital stocks or other securities issued by companies of foreign countries.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2008/Bills/S2000/1605_R1.PDF
Title: S.B. 1605
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Leadership


Signed into law 10/2008

P-12

Eliminates one-year notice that a school district is required to give superintendent of schools if the district determines not to reappoint.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2008/Bills/A1500/1113_R1.PDF
Title: A.B. 1113
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/

Postsecondary


Signed into law 10/2008

Postsec.,
Community College

Allows full-time faculty members at state public institutions of higher education having a doctoral degree and expertise in the areas of ethics, philosophy and government with extensive experience in state legislative organization and procedures to serve on the Joint Legislative Committee on Ethical Standards even though they are full-time state employees.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2008/Bills/A3500/3204_I1.PDF
Title: A.B. 3204
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Accountability


Signed into law 06/2008

P-12

Establishes Commissioner of Education as the rule- making authority under several school district accountability statutes relating to early termination agreements and revocation of certificates; requires public hearings on proposed regulations.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2008/Bills/A3000/2965_R1.PDF
Title: A.B. 2965
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Governance--State Boards/Chiefs/Agencies


Signed into law 06/2008

P-12

Eliminates role of the Board of Education in the appeal of Commissioner of Education decisions in disputes arising under the State school laws; provides that an appeal of a commissioner's decision would go directly to the Appellate Division of the Superior Court; provides that after an appeal of a determination by the School Ethics Commission or the State Board of Examiners the commissioner's decision would be considered final agency action.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2008/Bills/A0500/45_R1.PDF
Title: A.B. 45
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/

High School


Signed into law 06/2008

P-12

Provides Department of Education statutory authority to provide persons 16 years of age or older who are no longer enrolled in school a State-issued school diploma to document the attainment of academic skills and knowledge equivalent to a high school education; authorizes the Commission of Education to adopt emergency regulations to effectuate the provisions of the bill.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2008/Bills/S2000/1910_I1.PDF
Title: S.B. 1910
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/

Parent/Family


Signed into law 06/2008

P-12

Permits parent of twins or higher order multiples enrolled in public school to select shared or separate classroom placement of their children.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2008/Bills/A2000/1671_I1.PDF
Title: A.B. 1671
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/

School/District Structure/Operations


Signed into law 06/2008

P-12,
Postsec.,
Community College

Allows local boards of education and county colleges to enter into contracts for a specified number of years for energy conservation or provision of renewable energy production at buildings owned by such entities.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2008/Bills/A1000/844_S1.PDF
Title: A.B. 844
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Teaching Quality--Compensation and Diversified Pay--Retirement/Benefits


Signed into law 06/2008

P-12

Revises various provisions of law relating to the Public Employees' Retirement System and the Teachers' Pension Annuity Fund; relates to retirement age, eligibility, and purchase of service credit; makes various changes to State Health Benefits Program administration; merges Washington and Lincoln holidays for State employees in Presidents Day.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2008/Bills/S2000/1962_I1.PDF
Title: S.B. 1962
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

High School


Signed into law 05/2008

P-12,
Postsec.

Enacts Alicia's Law, permits a student whose high school special education program requires instruction beyond four years to participate with his or her class in that classes graduation ceremony and to receive a certificate of attendance.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2008/Bills/S0500/442_R1.PDF
Title: S.B. 442
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/

Assessment


Signed into law 03/2008

Postsec.,
Community College

Pertains to institutions of higher education. Requires alternative testing arrangements be provided to certain students unable to attend tests at their regular administration due to religious observance.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2008/Bills/S1500/1023_I1.PDF
Title: S.B. 1023
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Public Involvement


Signed into law 03/2008

P-12

Amends the Open Public Meetings Act. Requires boards of education to set aside a portion of every board meeting for public comment.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2008/Bills/A1000/690_I1.PDF
Title: A.B. 690
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Finance


Signed into law 01/2008

P-12

Enacts the School Funding Reform Act of 2008 to creates a fair, equitable and predictable funding formula based on student characteristics; relates to the base per pupil amounts used to determine a district's base cost, the calculation of a district's adequacy budget, at-risk students proportionment, special education costs, vocational education, early childhood programs, transportation aid, the funding of charter school students, and a district's tax levy growth.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/A0500/500_I2.PDF
Title: A.B. 500
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/

Health


Signed into law 01/2008

P-12

Clarifies that in nonpublic schools the school nurse would be required to recruit and train volunteer designees to administer epinephrine to students when the nurse is not physically present.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/PL07/229_.PDF
Title: S.B. 2905
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Reading/Literacy


Signed into law 01/2008

P-12

Amends fiscal year 2008 annual appropriations act to allocate $ 250,000 from Governor's Literacy Initiative to Literacy Volunteers of New Jersey, Inc.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/S3000/2889_R1.PDF
Title: S.B. 2889
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

School Safety


Signed into law 01/2008

P-12

Requires the Violence Institute of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey to undertake a comprehensive study of Megan's Law; relates to registration by sex offenders and community notification.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/PL07/227_.PDF
Title: S.B. 2516
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

School Safety


Signed into law 01/2008

P-12,
Postsec.,
Community College

Revises laws concerning hate crimes and bullying; relates to civil actions for for bias crime victims; adds bias crimes to the list with which a victim may receive compensation; requires police training in bias intimidation crimes; provides for additional penalties for the crime of bias intimidation; establishes the Commission on Bullying in Schools to study and make recommendations regarding the implementation and effectiveness of school bullying laws and regulations and student legal remedies.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/S3000/2975_R1.PDF
Title: S.B. 2975
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Special Education


Signed into law 01/2008

P-12

Places the burden of proof and burden of production on school districts in due process hearings conducted to resolve special education issues; codifies the practice.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us
Title: A.B. 4076
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Special Education


Signed into law 01/2008

P-12

Establishes the Council on Out-of-State Placement of Children and the registry of qualified out-of-State residential schools and programs in Department of Human Services, to be known as Billy's Law, to reduce out-of-state placements.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/S2500/2490_R1.HTM
Title: S.B. 2490
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Health--Child Abuse


Signed into law 12/2007

P-12

Requires school districts to notify Division of Youth and Family Services of certain pupil absences; relates to abused and neglected children.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/AL07/248_.PDF
Title: A.B. 868
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Postsecondary Affordability--Financial Aid


Signed into law 12/2007

Postsec.,
Community College

Provides a military service exemption to the requirement of continuous enrollment under the NJ STARS and NJ STARS II Programs.
http://www.state.nj.us
Title: A.B. 3253
Source: http://www.state.nj.ust

School/District Structure/Operations


To governor 12/2007

P-12

Permits the consolidation of a county vocational school district and a county special services school district into a single school district.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/PL07/222_.PDF
Title: S.B. 460
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Finance--Taxes/Revenues


Rejected by voters 09/2007

P-12

Property tax. Dedicated annual revenue of an amount equal to a tax rate of 1% under the state sales tax for property tax reform
FAILED 47-53
http://www.nj.gov/oag/elections/2007results/public-question-1-tax-reform-2007.pdf
Title: V. 5 Public Question 1
Source: http://www.state.nj.us/lps/elections/electionshome.html

Finance--Funding Formulas


Adopted 08/2007

P-12

Proposes to amend rules concerning Financing Foundational and Demonstrably Needed Programs and Services in Abbott School Districts. Suspends the requirements that the school districts prepare and submit to the Department a school district report on instructional priorities. Eliminates the requirement that social workers and guidance counselors obtain the necessary training to become substance awareness coordinators. Clarifies what incremental costs may be included in the school district's justification and documentation of need when requesting additional funds to open a new school facility. NEW JERSEY 17888
http://www.state.nj.us/education/code/current/title6a/chap10.pdf
Title: NJAC 6A:10-1.1, 1.2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.6, 2.7, and NJAC 6A:10-2.10
Source: New Jersey Rules/Regs

Health


Signed into law 08/2007

P-12

Requires distributing information about human papillomavirus to parents and guardians of seventh to twelfth graders and to pediatricians; establishes a public awareness campaign.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/PL07/134_.PDF
Title: S.B. 2286
Source: New Jersey Legislature

Health--Child Abuse


Signed into law 08/2007

P-12

Expands responsibilities of New Jersey Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect; requires the task force to education the public about the problems of, and coordinate activities relating to, child abuse and neglect, develop a statewide plan to prevent child abuse and neglect and mechanisms for prevention strategies with the Division of Prevention and Community Partnerships, and to foster cooperative working relationship between state and local agencies for services to victims and their families.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/PL07/130_.PDF
Title: S.B. 1217
Source: New Jersey Legislature

Leadership


Adopted 08/2007

P-12

Amends rules pertaining to professional licensure and standards. Strengthens the State licensure system based on professional standards for pre-service preparation, certification and professional development. Increases selected licensing fees. Establishes new professional development standards for teachers and new study, experience and internship requirements for the school administrator and principal endorsements. Provides additional out- of-state reciprocity for administrator and educational services certificates and establishes a new school orientation and mobility educational services endorsement.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/
Title: NJAC 6A:9
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/

At-Risk (incl. Dropout Prevention)--Drugs/Alcohol


Adopted 07/2007

P-12

Amends rules regarding programs to support student development. Relates to voluntary policies for the random testing of student alcohol or other drug use, which is limited to students participating in extracurricular activities. Establishes requirements for voluntary programs of drug testing for these categories of students. Supports school district's comprehensive alcohol and other drug abuse programs by providing them with additional means for the early detection, evaluation and treatment of students with alcohol or other drug problems.
NEW JERSEY 17999
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/
Title: NJAC 6A:16-1.3 and 4.1; NJAC 6A:16-4.4
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/

Finance


Adopted 07/2007

P-12

Amends rules establishing a grant program to fund the State share of the final eligible costs of school facilities projects undertaken by school districts whose district aid percentage is less than 55% and which elect not to have the Corporation construct the school facilities project.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us
Title: NJAC 19:32-1 thru -4
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

P-3


Signed into law 06/2007

P-12

Concerns Early Intervention Program services for children with autism. Requires Department of Health and Senior Services, in conjunction with the Departments of Education and Human Services, to establish a Statewide system of early intervention services for eligible infants and toddlers from birth to age 2-3 with physical, cognitive, communication, social or emotional, and adaptive developmental delays or disabilities in accordance with Part H of the "Individuals with Disabilities Education Act."
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/A4500/4056_R3.PDF
Title: A.B. 4056; S.B. 2568
Source: New Jersey Legislature

Postsecondary Success--Transfer/Articulation


Signed into law 06/2007

Postsec.,
Community College

Provides for the transfer of certain college credits. Each public institution of higher education will establish and enter into a collective Statewide transfer agreement that provides for the seamless transfer of academic credits from a completed associate of arts or associate of science degree program to a baccalaureate degree program.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/A4000/3968_R1.PDF
Title: A.B. 3968
Source: New Jersey Legislature

School Safety


Signed into law 06/2007

P-12

Includes electronic communication in definition of public school harassment, intimidation or bullying; defines electronic communication to mean a communication transmitted by means of an electronic device, including, but not limited to, a telephone, cellular phone, computer or pager; relates to the addition to a school district's policy on prohibiting harassment, intimidation or bullying to include such communication.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/S1000/993_R1.PDF
Title: S.B. 993
Source: New Jersey Legislature

School/District Structure/Operations--Facilities


Signed into law 06/2007

P-12

Establishes the New Jersey Schools Development Authority and revises the school construction program established under the Educational Facilities Construction and Financing Act.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/A4500/4336_R2.PDF
Title: A.B. 4336; S.B. 2796
Source: New Jersey Legislature

Special Education


Signed into law 06/2007

P-12

Requires candidates for teaching certificates and current teachers to receive instruction in autism awareness and methods of teaching students with autism.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/A4500/4055_R2.PDF
Title: A.B. 4055; S.B. 2558
Source: New Jersey Legislature

Background Checks


Signed into law 05/2007

P-12

Permits criminal history record check for unpaid volunteers in schools and requires applicant to be reimbursed for costs of check; permits the reimbursement of paid school personnel for such costs.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/A1000/515_R1.PDF
Title: A.B. 515
Source: New Jersey Legislature

Accountability


Signed into law 03/2007

P-12

Amends school district accountability measures; provides that if a school district is spending state education funds for purposes not in compliance with state law, the district receives an adverse, disclaimer or qualified opinion by its independent auditor; provides that such school district is required to return federal funds upon a finding of noncompliance; provides for a training program; requires a performance evaluation for employment contract renewal; provides for public budget inspection .
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/S0500/4_R1.PDF
Title: A.B. 5; S.B 4
Source: New Jersey Legislature

Accountability


Signed into law 03/2007

P-12

Amends school district accountability measures; provides that if a school district is spending state education funds for purposes not in compliance with state law, the district receives an adverse, disclaimer or qualified opinion by its independent auditor; provides that such school district is required to return federal funds upon a finding of noncompliance; provides for a training program; requires a performance evaluation for employment contract renewal; provides for public budget inspection .
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/A0500/5_R1.PDF
Title: A.B. 5
Source: New Jersey Legislature

Accountability


Signed into law 01/2007

P-12

Revises various provisions of The New Jersey Quality Single Accountability Continuum public school district monitoring system, related reporting, and oversight requirements.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/A4000/3676_R1.PDF
Title: A.B. 3676
Source: New Jersey Legislature

Assessment


Active 01/2007

P-12

States that beginning in spring 2008, New Jersey will begin administering an end-of-course assessment in biology. Per memo: "This direction will entail not merely a redesign of science testing specifications, but recommendations to the state board for establishing specific course requirements in high school science, including a requirement that all students take biology. Other course requirements may be prescribed as well."
http://www.state.nj.us/njded/assessment/sciencememo.pdf
Title: Department Policy
Source: www.state.nj.us

Health--Nutrition


Signed into law 01/2007

P-12

Establishes certain nutritional restrictions on food and beverages served, sold or given away to pupils in public and certain nonpublic schools.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/S1500/1218_I1.PDF

Title: S.B. 1218
Source: New Jersey Legislature

P-3


Signed into law 01/2007

P-12

Designates third week of May New Jersey Early Intervention Week to focus public attention on the needs of young children, to recognize the early childhood programs and services that meet those needs, and to plan how we can better meet the needs of all young children.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/SJR/14_I1.PDF
Title: S.J.R. 14; A.J.R 113
Source: New Jersey Legislature

Postsecondary Affordability--Financial Aid


Signed into law 01/2007

Postsec.

Extends eligibility for higher education tuition assistance to certain former members of New Jersey National Guard and increases number of tuition-free credits available to National Guard members and their dependents.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bills/BillView.asp
Title: A.B. 2542; S.B. 1550
Source: New Jersey Legislature

Accountability


Signed into law 12/2006

P-12

Directs Commissioner of Education to contract with independent entity to conduct an evaluation of the Department Of Education and its oversight capacity; relates to public school funding reform.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/SJR/1_I1.PDF
Title: S.J.R. 1; A.J.R. 10
Source: New Jersey Legislature

Civic Education


Signed into law 12/2006

P-12

Requires boards of education to offer elementary school students instruction in gang violence prevention.

http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bills/BillView.asp
Title: A.B. 1650; S.B. 1749
Source: New Jersey Legislature

Finance--Funding Formulas


Signed into law 12/2006

P-12

Directs the Commissioner of Education to contract with an independent entity to conduct an evaluation of the Department Of Education and its oversight capacity; relates to public school funding reform.
Title: S.J.R. 1
Source: New Jersey Legislature

P-3


Signed into law 12/2006

P-12

Designates third week of May New Jersey Early Intervention Week to focus public attention on the needs of young children, to recognize the early childhood programs and services that meet those needs, and to plan how we can better meet the needs of all young children.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/SJR/14_I1.PDF
Title: S.J.R. 14; A.J.R 113
Source: New Jersey Legislature

Special Populations--Homeless Education


Adopted 12/2006

P-12

Provides the regulatory framework to ensure that homeless children areable to meet the same challenging state content and student performancestandards that all other students in the state are expected to meet. NEW JERSEY 17692
Title: NJAC 6A:17
Source: New Jersey Code

Governance--Ethics/Conflict of Interest


Adopted 09/2006

Postsec.,
Community College

Amends rules concerning the Higher Education Commission's Institutional Code of Ethics to require every public institution of higher education in the state to develop a code of ethics that complies with the requirements of all statutes, rules and executive orders applicable to the institution, including, but not limited to, the New Jersey Conflicts of Interest Law, the Local Government Ethics Law, and rules of the Executive Commission on Ethical Standards; prohibits higher education institution officers and employees from accepting any gifts, favors, services, or other things of value under circumstances from which it might be reasonably inferred that such gifts, services, or other things of value were given or offered for the purpose of influencing them in the discharge of their official duties.
Title: NJAC 9A:3
Source: http://www.lexisnexis.com/njoal/

Special Populations--Gifted and Talented


Issued 09/2006

P-12

(Executive Order 2006-35) Continues and modifies the Governor's School Board of Overseers that oversees the Governor's School Program, which identifies high school students with high scholastic promise and matches them with intensive summer programs at New Jersey institutions of higher education where they are challenged to grow and learn in a focused, college-level, academic environment; modifies the membership of the Governor's School Board of Overseers with the goal of exploring and securing new funding options for the Governor's School Program, and ensuring that the Program's student body reflects New Jersey's diversity. http://www.state.nj.us/infobank/circular/eojsc35.htm
Title: E.O. 35
Source: http://www.state.nj.us/infobank/circular/eoindex.htm

Postsecondary Affordability--Financial Aid


Adopted 08/2006

Postsec.,
Community College

Establishes the New Jersey Student Tuition Assistance Reward Scholarship II Program and provides that the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority shall adopt rules necessary for the administration of the act.
Title: NJAC 9A:9-11
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

School Safety


Signed into law 08/2006

P-12

Requires the Attorney General to prepare a pamphlet to educate children about pedophile crimes and how to reduce their chances of becoming victims of such crimes. The pamphlet would be developed in consultation with the New Jersey School Boards Association, the New Jersey Coalition Against Sexual Assault, the New Jersey Education Association, and the Division on Women. The bill specifies that the pamphlet would be distributed to all elementary and secondary schools throughout the State, which would be required to distribute them to students. The pamphlets would be designed by the Attorney General. http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2004/Bills/AL05/347_.PDF
Title: S.B. 2595
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Teaching Quality--Certification and Licensure


Adopted 08/2006

P-12

Amends rules concerning Special Education Instructional Certificate requirements. http://www.state.nj.us/njded/code/current/title6a/chap9.pdf (see pg. 153)
Title: NJAC 6A:9-11.3
Source: http://www.state.nj.us/njded/code/current/

Finance--Private Giving


Adopted 07/2006

Postsec.,
Community College

Establishes procedures for higher education institutions to apply for State matching funds under the Higher Education Incentive Funding Act, and delineates how and when the matching funds will be distributed to such institutions.

Title: NJAC 17:26
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Finance--Taxes/Revenues


Signed into law 07/2006

P-12,
Postsec.,
Community College

Raises the cigarette tax rate 17 1/2 cents per pack and changes tobacco products wholesale sales tax on moist snuff to a weight-based tax; provides for a portion of the cigarette tax and tobacco products wholesale sales tax revenues to be appropriated annually to the New Jersey Economic Development Authority for payment of debt service incurred by the authority for school facilities projects. http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/AL06/37_.PDF
Title: A.B. 4705
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

School/District Structure/Operations--Transportation


Signed into law 07/2006

P-12

Revises the mandated installation requirement of closed crankcase technology on regulated school buses to comply with the state's ultra low sulfur diesel fuel law for motor vehicles by requiring the owner of a regulated school bus to submit a cost estimate to the Department of Environmental Protection detailing the cost of any retrofit device to be installed on a bus as part of the closed crankcase technology and any cost associated with the installation of the closed crankcase technology prior to its purchase or installation. If the department determines
the estimated costs are unreasonable, based upon criteria including, but not limited to, prevailing market rates and acquisition by the state of comparable technology, the department shall enter into negotiations with the owner of the regulated school bus to resolve the discrepancy.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/S2000/1796_R1.PDF
Title: S.B. 1796
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Health


Signed into law 06/2006

P-12

Requires department of health and senior services to develop an educational fact sheet concerning meningococcal meningitis; directs the commissioner of education to distribute the fact sheet to parents and guardians of students in grade 6 through 12 at the start of the 2006 school year; provides that beginning in the 2007 school year, a district will be required to distribute the fact sheet to parents and guardians of students in the sixth grade only; encourages private schools to distribute the fact sheet.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/S1500/1461_I1.PDF
Title: S.B. 1461
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Parent/Family


Signed into law 06/2006

P-12

Requires the Department of Education to include in its parental rights in special education booklet, information describing services available through, and contact information for, state agencies serving adults with disabilities and to require all school districts with grades 9 through 12 to designate at least one staff member to serve as a disability services resource for parents.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/S1500/1220_I1.PDF
Title: S.B. 1220
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

School Safety


Signed into law 06/2006

P-12

Upgrades simple assault against school teachers and school employees to aggravated assault, includes public or nonpublic elementary and secondary schools.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/A3000/2556_I1.HTM
Title: A.B. 2556
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/

Accountability--Sanctions/Interventions


Signed into law 04/2006

P-12

Provides for appointment of a state monitor in school districts with fiscal issues such as deficit balances or whose audits found material weaknesses; allows for an advance state aid payment to certain districts and requires repayment of that advance; appropriates $ 10 million.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2006/Bills/AL06/15_.PDF
Title: A.B. 2684
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Career/Technical Education


Signed into law 02/2006

P-12,
Postsec.

Reforms State's workforce investment system, establishes the Center forOccupational Employment Information to provide information supporting career guidance and academic counseling programs, to make information and planning resources relating education to careers available to workforce investment system clients, and equipping teachers, administrators, and counselors to assist clients.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2004/Bills/AL05/354_.PDF
Title: S.B. 2826
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Health--Suicide Prevention


Signed into law 02/2006

P-12

Requires State Board of Education to include two hours of instruction in suicide prevention as part of professional development for public school teaching staff members; revises the Core Curriculum Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education to include suicide prevention instruction. http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2004/Bills/AL05/310_.PDF
Title: A.B. 3931
Source: Lexis/Nexis, State Net

Postsecondary Affordability--Financial Aid


Adopted 02/2006

Community College,
Postsec.

Provides scholarships for the full cost of tuition and approved fees to eligible students enrolled in a full-time course to study at the county college serving their county of residence. Allows students to attend a county college outside their county of residence when the curriculum that the student chooses to study is not offered by the county college within their county of residence.
Title: NJAC 9A:9-10.6, 10.10
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

School/District Structure/Operations--Facilities


Issued 02/2006

P-12

Creates a new position of oversight of the School Construction Program and a new working group that will oversee a full review of the program and recommend reforms. The governor appointed 6 new members to the Schools Construction Corporation (SCC) Board of Directors. The working group is directed to review "the entire School Construction Program and the laws, regulations and policies governing educational facilities and to develop recommendations for reform" including recommendations for statutory changes. The working group is also charged with recommending immediate changes to improve SCC operations.
http://www.state.nj.us/governor/news/news/approved/20060207.html
Title: Executive Order No. 3
Source: http://www.state.nj.us

School/District Structure/Operations--Facilities


Issued 02/2006

P-12

(Executive Order 2006-3) Creates the position of Special Counsel to the Governor for School Construction ("Special Counsel.") The Special Counsel is to be appointed by the Governor.  During the period of appointment the Special Counsel shall also serve as a Special Assistant Attorney General and shall, in consultation with the Attorney General, have access to the support and resources of the Department of Law and Public Safety, including without limitation such clerical and support staff as may be necessary to discharge the responsibilities under this Executive Order. The Special Counsel is authorized to call upon any department, office or agency of State government to provide such information, resources or other assistance deemed necessary. Each department, office, division, and agency of State government is required to cooperate with the Special Counsel and to furnish the Special Counsel with assistance necessary to accomplish the purpose of this Executive Order. The Special Counsel shall serve as the Governor's representative in all matters pertaining to the management and operations of the Schools Construction Corporation and shall serve on the Corporation's Board of Directors in the position designated in Executive Order No. 24 (2002) for a member of the Governor's Executive Staff.
http://www.state.nj.us/governor/news/news/approved/20060207.html
Title: E.O. 3; (NEW BILL)
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Special Education


Signed into law 01/2006

P-12

Establishes the Special Education Review Commission. http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2004/Bills/AL05/339_.PDF
Title: S.B. 2417
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Health


Issued 12/2005

P-12

Executive order No. 72 addresses many of the Governor's Task Force on Steroid Use and Prevention. Directs the Department of Education to work with the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association to develop and implement a program of random testing for steroids among teams and individuals qualifying for championship games, which will commence with the 2006-2007 school year.  Directs the Department of Health and Senior Services to develop and implement a program to randomly test dietary supplement products for sale in New Jersey to detect steroid contamination.  Directs the Department of Education to work with the Department of Health and Senior Services and other agencies to implement a broad-range of educational components from the fifth grade level on up through high school.

Title: Executive Order No. 72
Source: http://www.state.nj.us/cgi-bin/governor/

Health--Child Abuse


Rule Adoption 08/2005

P-12

Establishes and amends requirements for school district boards relating to development and implementation of school safety plans, cooperation with law enforcement on certain matters if they occur at school grounds and functions, development and implementation of a student code of conduct, establishment of intervention and referral services at schools, application and approval of alternative education programs, guidelines for placement in home or out-of-school instruction for general education students, and reporting allegations of child abuse or neglect.
Title: NJAC 6A:16-1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.5 thru 5.8, 6.1 thru 6.3,7.1, 7.2 thru 7.10, 8 thru 11
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Health--Nutrition


Adopted 06/2005

P-12

State Board of Agriculture has approved Agriculture Department's amended Nutrition Rule. Will be phased in. By September 1, 2006, districts are required to adopt a school nutrition policy. By September 1, 2007, districts must match their policies to the Model School Nutrition Policy. Applies to all vending machines, cafeterias, a la carte lines, snack bars, school stores, fundraisers and reimbursable After School Snack Program. Prohibits foods of minimal nutritional value, including a ban on soda, items listing sugar in any form as the first ingredient, and all forms of candy -- at any time before the end of the school day. Requires reduction in the purchase of products containing trans fats. Sets requirements for all snack and beverage items. Requires each school's curriculum to include nutrition education.

http://www.state.nj.us/agriculture/modelnutritionpolicy.htm
Title: Nutrition Rule, Department of Agriculture
Source: www.state.nj.us/cgi-bin/governor

No Child Left Behind


REPORTED OUT OF ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE, 2ND READING 05/2005

P-12

An Assembly Resolution urging the Governor to join the State of Connecticut's lawsuit concerning the "No Child Left Behind Act of 2001."
Title: H.R. 267
Source: StateNet

Postsecondary Affordability--Financial Aid


Signed into law 03/2005

Postsec.

Expands definition of resident for purposes of State tuition aid grant eligibility to include a dependent child whose parent or guardian has been transferred to a military base in this State.
Title: A.B. 3705
Source: StateNet

School/District Structure/Operations--Transportation


To governor 03/2005

P-12

Requires certain public entities to competitively bid in order to provide pupil transportation services to a local school district.
Title: S.B. 1298
Source: StateNet

Demographics--Enrollments


Signed into law 02/2005

Postsec.,
Community College

Provides for re-enrollment right or refund of fees for student in public institutions of higher education who is called to active duty for certain military operations.
Title: S.B. 532
Source: StateNet

Attendance--Truancy


To governor 12/2004

P-12

Permits municipalities to adopt school-time curfew ordinances for juveniles.
Title: S.B. 155
Source: StateNet

Students--Records/Rights


To governor 12/2004

Postsec.

Prohibits display of students' social security numbers by institutions of higher education to identify the student for posting or public listing of grades, on class rosters or other lists provided to teachers, on student identification cards, in student directories or similar listing.
Title: A.B. 1205
Source: StateNet

Teaching Quality--Compensation and Diversified Pay


Signed into law 12/2004

P-12

Concerns the retirement allowance of the Teachers' Pension and Annuity Fund and the Public Employees' Retirement System veterans members who retire after attaining age 55 with at least 35 years of service credit; provides the allowance shall be based on the 12-month period of membership providing the largest possible benefit to the member of their beneficiary instead of the last year of employment upon which contributions are made.
Title: S.B. 839
Source: StateNet

School/District Structure/Operations


Signed into law 10/2004

P-12

Permits a school district that terminates the operation of a separate school for special education pupils and returns all funds legally uwed to the school districts that sent pupils to the school to use any remaining funds to establish a scholarship foundation for the pupils of the district.
Title: A.B. 2257
Source: StateNet

Choice of Schools--Charter Schools


Signed into law 08/2004

P-12

Provides that charter school administrators and trustees are subject to provisions of School Ethics Act.
Title: S.B. 337
Source: StateNet

P-3 Preschool


Signed into law 08/2004

P-12

Provides that any non-Abbott school district which is not required to operate a preschool program and which does not receive early childhood program aid may collect tuition from the parents or guardians of students enrolled in the district's preschool program; provides the amount of the tuition may not exceed the per pupil cost of the program. http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2004/Bills/AL04/125_.PDF
Title: A.B. 2170
Source: StateNet

Finance--District


Signed into law 07/2004

P-12

Revises calculation of budget caps and reduces allowable surplus for public school districts.
Title: S.B. 1701
Source: StateNet

Postsecondary Institutions--Community/Technical Colleges


Signed into law 06/2004

Postsec.

Establishes the New Jersey Student Tuition Assistance Reward Scholarship Program (NJ STARS) to provide scholarships for students attending New Jersey county colleges on a full-time basis in a curriculum leading to a degree. Scholarships awarded under the program will cover the cost of tuition and fees for a full-time course load. To be eligible to receive a scholarship in the first year of enrollment at a county college, a student must have graduated in the top 20% of the student's high school class. To be eligible for a scholarship award after the first year of enrollment, a student must have ranked among the top 20% of all full-time students, commencing enrollment at the county college at the same time as the student did, who remained enrolled as full-time students at the completion of the student's initial year of enrollment (i.e., the student's full-time college freshman class cohort). Other eligibility criteria provided for in the bill are (i) being a State resident, (ii) having applied for all other available forms of State and federal need-based grants and merit scholarships, exclusive of loans, (iii) being enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester, not including any credit hours in a remedial or developmental curriculum, (iv) having graduated from high school in 2004 or later, and not earlier than the calendar year two years prior to the first calendar year of scholarship payment, and (v) maintaining continuous enrollment in a full-time course of study, except for approved leave for medical reasons or family emergency. A student would only be eligible for a scholarship award for five semesters. http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2004/Bills/S1500/1192_R2.PDF
Title: S.B. 1192
Source: www.njleg.state.nj.us

Attendance


Signed into law 05/2004

P-12

Establishes the Task Force to Study Attendance in Public Schools to study current practices within school districts in the state regarding student attendance, including, but not limited to absences, tardiness, procedures for addressing students with patterns of unauthorized absences or excessive tardiness, and to investigate what other states are doing with respect to student attendance.
Introduced - 5 pages PDF Format    HTML Format
Statement - AED 1/26/04 - 1 pages PDF Format    HTML Format
Technical Review Of Prefiled Bill - 5 pages PDF Format    HTML Format
Statement - SED 3/29/04 - 1 pages PDF Format    HTML Format
Advance Law - 3 pages PDF Format    HTML Format
Title: A.J.R. 68
Source: StateNet

Teaching Quality--Certification and Licensure


Signed into law 04/2004

P-12

Relates to teacher certification; authorizes the Board of Education to issue a technology education endorsement and an endorsement for industrial arts.
Title: A.B. 896
Source: StateNet

Health


Signed into law 01/2004

Postsec.

Requires meningococcal vaccinations for full-time students at institutions of higher education.
Title: A.B. 1546
Source: StateNet

Accountability--Rewards


Signed into law 12/2003

P-12

Establishes the Governor's Annual Award for Outstanding Educational Services Professionals.
Title: S.B. 2397
Source: StateNet

Health


Signed into law 12/2003

P-12

Prohibits smoking on school buses, even if students are not present; clarifies that the prohibition on smoking or carrying lighted tobacco on a bus or other public conveyance applies to school buses or other vehicle owned or contracted for by a public or nonpublic school, college, university or professional training school that are used to transport students to and from school and school related activities.
Title: A.B. 3168
Source: StateNet

Leadership


Signed into law 06/2003

P-12

Authorizes boards of education to establish tax- sheltered deferred compensation plans under section 457 of the federal Internal Revenue Code. http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2002/Bills/A3500/3385_I1.PDF
Title: A.B. 3385
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Postsecondary Faculty


To governor 06/2003

Postsec.

Allows part-time State employees and part-time faculty members at public institutions of higher education in this State to purchase State Health Benefits Program coverage.
Title: A.B. 3424
Source: StateNet

Postsecondary Governance and Structures


Signed into law 06/2003

Postsec.

Provides that the three proprietary schools currently authorized to offer degree programs will have seats on the New Jersey Presidents' Council and that one proprietary school president shall sit on the executive board.
Title: A.B. 2482
Source: StateNet

Teaching Quality--Unions/Collective Bargaining


Signed into law 06/2003

P-12

Provides collective negotiation procedures for school employee contracts, prohibits imposition of such contracts.
Title: A.B. 3419
Source: StateNet

Curriculum


Signed into law 03/2003

P-12

Provides for instruction for middle school and high school students in the dynamics of domestic violence and child abuse.
Title: S.B. 487
Source: StateNet

Health


Signed into law 03/2003

P-12

Establishes the Ergonomics in Education Study Commission to study all issues associated with ergonomics in K-12 schools including instruction, materials, associated teacher training and facilities. . http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2002/Bills/S1500/1495_S2.PDF
Title: S.B. 1495
Source: StateNet

School Safety


Signed into law 03/2003

Postsec.

Amends Megan's Law to comply with requirements of federal Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act. http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2002/Bills/AL03/34_.HTM
Title: A.B. 3173
Source: StateNet

School/District Structure/Operations--Transportation


Signed into law 03/2003

P-12

Strengthens screening procedures for school bus drivers; provides for a driver's record check for any alcohol and drug related motor vehicle violations.
Title: S.B. 795
Source: StateNet

Online Learning--Digital/Blended Learning


Signed into law 02/2003

P-12

Requires the state board to adopt core curriculum content standards for technology.
Title: A.B. 2169
Source: StateNet

Scheduling/School Calendar


Signed into law 02/2003

P-12

Authorizes the Commissioner of Education to change any date in the school budget and election calendar due to a conflict with a day of religious observance.
Title: S.B. 861
Source: StateNet

School/District Structure/Operations--Transportation


Signed into law 02/2003

P-12

Provides that school pupil may not be on board a school bus unless the bus driver or other employee of the school board or school bus contractor is also on board the bus; provides an exception when the bus driver leaves the bus to assist in boarding or exiting of a disabled pupil or in the case of an emergency.
Title: S.B. 384
Source: StateNet

Health


Signed into law 01/2003

P-12

Provides for mandatory participation in a school breakfast program for schools in a local or regional school district with a certain percentage of students enrolled in the school for the previous year were eligible for free or reduced meals under the federal School Lunch Program; provides procedures for submission of the program plan.
Title: S.B. 1498
Source: StateNet

Background Checks


Signed into law 12/2002

P-12

Provides for notification of charges pending for a disqualifying crime or offense against a public or nonpublic school employee or school bus driver who has previously undergone a criminal history background check.
Title: S.B. 1709
Source: StateNet

Choice of Schools--Charter Schools


Signed into law 12/2002

P-12

Requires state commissioner, upon application for a charter school, to notify the members of the legislature, school superintendents, mayors and governing bodies of all legislative districts, school districts or municipalities in which there are students who will be eligible for enrollment in the charter schools. http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2002/Bills/AL02/123_.PDF
Title: A.B. 2698
Source: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us

Finance--District


Signed into law 12/2002

P-12

Amends Municipal Rehabilitation and Economic Recovery Act to clarify that the legislation relates to any municipality or school district which falls under its criteria and who has financial and governance challenges regarding assurances moneys are spent as required for development and redevelopment and the necessary coordination has been made with respect to moneys supporting schools and educational efforts.
Title: S.B. 1878
Source: StateNet

Health


Signed into law 12/2002

P-12

Creates the School Integrated Pest Management Act; implements a policy for integrated pest management in public, private and charter schools.
Title: S.B. 137
Source: StateNet

Postsecondary Students--Disabled


Signed into law 12/2002

Postsec.

Allows students at institutions of higher education who are hearing and visually impaired of learning disabled to be eligible for reasonable substitution of specific courses required for the completion of degree requirements.
Title: S.B. 106
Source: StateNet

School/District Structure/Operations--Transportation


Signed into law 12/2002

P-12

Prohibits the use of a cellular or wireless telephone while driving a school bus; provides for a monetary fine for violations; provides that no motor vehicle or automobile insurance eligibility points shall be assessed for this offense.
Title: A.B. 445
Source: StateNet

Finance


To ASSEMBLY Committee on STATE GOVERNMENT. 11/2002

P-12,
Postsec.

Directs the State Treasurer to establish an automated bid access and purchasing information to be known as the Vendor Information Program to allow bidders to acces information related to bidding on contracts awarded by the State and its political subdivisions including, school districts and authorities.
Title: A.B. 3009
Source: StateNet

Governance--School Boards


Rule Adoption 11/2002

P-12

Clarifies, establishes and recodifies rules regarding complaint procedures with respect to the code of ethics for school board members. Adds a new complaint form for complaints alleging only a violation of the Code of Ethics and sets forth procedures to expedite the processing of complaints to allow the Commission to decide whether a violation exists within the 90 days prescribed by the newly enacted statute. NEW JERSEY REG 15283 (SN)
Title: NJAC 6A:28-1.2, 1.9 thru 1.16
Source: StateNet

Health


Adopted 11/2002

P-12

Clarifies rules regarding the prohibition of smoking or the use of any other tobacco product on school grounds. Adds a definition of school grounds and extends to include the smoking of any substance and the use of tobacco products in school buildings and on school grounds. NEW JERSEY REG 15282 (SN)
Title: NJAC 6A:16-1.3, 3.1
Source: StateNet

No Child Left Behind--Supplemental Services


Active 11/2002

P-12

RFP: http://www.state.nj.us/njded/grants/nclb/supplemental_rfp.pdf
Providers list: http://www.state.nj.us/njded/grants/nclb/policy/ssp.pdf
Source: New Jersey Department of Education

Choice of Schools--Charter Schools


Adopted 10/2002

P-12

Establishes rules pertaining to charter schools. Provides definition of terms. Specifies: application and approval, reporting, renewal, probation and revocation, appeal and amendment process, School Ethics Act, certification requirements for staff and streamline tenure. NEW JERSEY REG 15252 (SN)
Title: NJAC 6A:11, 6A:11-1.1 thru 6A:11-7.1 (non seq)
Source: StateNet

No Child Left Behind--Adequate Yearly Progress


Adopted 10/2002

P-12

Establishes rules relating to standards and assessment for student achievement. Specifies: inclusion of all students in the school and district assessment and accountability system, mobility, the Alternate Proficiency Assessment (APA), updates cross-references and implementation dates. Clarifies the purpose of the Statewide assessment system that is designed to measure student progress in the attainment of the Core Curriculum Content Standards. NEW JERSEY REG 15251 (SN)
Title: NJAC 6A:8
Source: StateNet

Textbooks and Open Source


To governor 10/2002

P-12

Requires department of education to coordinate sharing of textbooks between school districts by creating a statewide textbook bank on the department's website that will list all available textbooks; requires the department to forward such list to each school district periodically.
Title: A.B. 2308
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Students--Records/Rights


To governor 09/2002

P-12

Protects pupils from being required to supply certain identifying information on materials distributed in class; prohibits material distributed to pupils from including the information in an obvious manner; provides a school district may use identification numbers of other methods of identification after the collection of the materials.
Title: S.B. 1130
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Health


Signed into law 08/2002

Postsec.

Requires hepatitis B vaccinations for full-time students at institutions of higher education.
Title: A.B. 1888
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

School Safety


Signed into law 08/2002

P-12

Requires that student's disciplinary records be transferred to receiving district when student transfers districts. Specifies that written consent of the parent or adult student shall not be required as a condition of transfer of this information; however, written notice of the transfer shall be provided to the parent or adult student. http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2002/Bills/AL02/63_.HTM
Title: S.B. 256
Source: StateNet

School Safety


Signed into law 08/2002

P-12

Upgrades simple assault to aggravated assault at a school or community sponsored youth sports event.
Title: S.B. 1198
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Curriculum


Signed into law 06/2002

P-12

Establishes the Amistad Commission to coordinate educational and other programs on slavery and African-American history in public and nonpublic schools and public and private nonprofit resource organizations. http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2002/Bills/A1500/1301_R1.HTM
Title: A.B. 1301
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

No Child Left Behind


Active 06/2002

P-12

2002 Consolidated Plan web page (6/2002): (http://www.state.nj.us/njded/grants/nclb/)
Source: New Jersey Department of Education Web site

Postsecondary Faculty


Signed into law 06/2002

P-12,
Postsec.

Requires a report and recommendations to and a public hearing of the Senate and Assembly committees with respect to certain information regarding part- time faculty, lecturers and adjunct faculty at public institutions of higher education.
Title: A.B. 459
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

School Safety


Signed into law 06/2002

P-12

Requires school districts to adopt harassment and bullying prevention policies.
Title: A.B. 1874
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

School Safety


Signed into law 06/2002

P-12

Requires that student's disciplinary records be transferred to receiving district when student transfers districts.
Title: S.B. 256
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

School Safety


Signed into law 06/2002

P-12

Permits the establishment of athletic codes of conduct; requires sports violence management counseling prior to resuming attendance; requires the Attorney General to promulgate a model athletic code of conduct.
Title: A.B. 446
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Choice of Schools--Charter Schools


Signed into law 03/2002

P-12

Permits charter schools to construct facilities with federal funds.
Title: A.B. 1691
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Teaching Quality--Recruitment and Retention


Signed into law 03/2002

P-12

Exempts teachers from foreign countries who are enrolled with an approved international agency which operates a teacher placement program, from teacher citizenship requirements and permits boards of education to temporarily employ such teachers only after good faith efforts to hire certified teachers.
Title: A.B. 1152
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Special Populations--Gifted and Talented


Signed into law 01/2002

P-12

Establishes the New Jersey Commission on Programs for Gifted Students; appropriates funds. http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2000/Bills/S2500/2429_R1.PDF
Title: S.B. 2429
Source: New Jersey Legislative Web Site

Students--Records/Rights


Signed into law 01/2002

P-12

Allows school districts to administer certain surveys to students only after receiving written informed parental consent; requires consent if the information revealed relates to political affiliations, mental or psychological problems, sexual behavior and attitudes, illegal, anti-social self-incriminating and demeaning behavior, legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships or income.
Title: A.B. 3359
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Curriculum


Vetoed 12/2001

P-12

Establishes Commission on Italian and Americans of Italian Heritage Culture and Education; appropriates funds. The duties of the commission include giving assistance to and advising public and nonpublic schools on the positive contributions and achievement of Italians and of Americans of Italian Heritage in our
society and encouraging a recognition of those values, both cultural and historical, which derive from the Italian heritage.
Title: A.B. 3693
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Finance--Taxes/Revenues


Signed into law 12/2001

P-12

Establishes the Literacy Volunteers of America - New Jersey Fund; provides for voluntary contributions by taxpayers on gross income tax returns for Literacy Volunteers of America - New Jersey.
Title: A.B. 2545
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Private Schools


To governor 12/2001

P-12

Extends transportation services to nonpublic school pupils who reside in certain regional school districts that provide aid in-lieu-of payments.
Title: A.B. 2928
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Reading/Literacy


Vetoed 12/2001

P-12

Establishes the Spread the Word Program in Department of Education to provide donated books to certain elementary school children; provides that donating schools will collect books, using book drives and other methods, and the books would be donated to recipient schools for children with few books.
Title: A.B. 3151
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

School/District Structure/Operations


Signed into law 07/2001

P-12

Permits jointure commissions to provide services to school districts including, education of disabled pupils; states when 2 or more boards of education determine to carry out jointly the duties imposed upon them in regard to education and training of disabled pupils and counseling, inclusionary, and child study team services for disabled pupils, the board may, in accordance to rules of the state board and the commissioner establish a joint commission to provide such services.
Title: S.B. 986
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

School/District Structure/Operations--Transportation


Signed into law 07/2001

P-12

Authorizes 10-year lease purchase agreements for acquisition of school buses.
Title: A.B. 2934
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Governance--School Boards


Signed into law 06/2001

P-12

Expands indemnification for school board members and employees in civil, administrative or criminal proceedings; establishes a code of ethics for school board members.
Title: A.B. 1755
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Postsecondary Affordability--Tuition/Fees--Prepd/College Savings Plans


Signed into law 06/2001

Postsec.

Establishes the New Jersey Prepaid Higher Education Expense Program to provide a means of payment of the costs of tuition in advance of enrollment at a public institute of higher education; establishes the NJBEST and Prepaid Higher Education Expense Board; states the program shall be administered by said Board; provides for investments of the Fund; provides for the Board's membership and related matters.
Title: A.B. 1622
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Special Education


Signed into law 06/2001

P-12

Provides that State funds to provide special education and related services to students enrolled in nonpublic schools may not be included by a school district in the calculation of the minimum funding requirements for nonpublic school students under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and that nonpublic school students must receive their proportionate share of Federal funds made available through IDEA.
Title: S.B. 2167
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

School/District Structure/Operations--Transportation


Signed into law 04/2001

P-12

Expands the role of county superintendents relative to pupil transportation; requires them to arbitrate disputes between boards of education and nonpublic school administrators and convene annual meetings of representatives of county public and nonpublic schools to discuss such issues; permits districts and cooperative transportation services agencies to contract for subscription busing to all public and nonpublic students not eligible or recieving in-lieu of transportation payments.
Title: S.B. 2097
Source: New Jersey Legislature's Web Site

Finance--Facilities


Signed into law 03/2001

P-12

Provides school district budget cap adjustment for expenses related to opening of new school facility during the budget year; states the district's budget may also be adjusted for increases in enrollment, certain capitol outlay expenditures for courtesy busing services and per pupil education costs in excess of a set amount; provides an additional adjustment for expenditures associated with opening a new school facility.
Title: A.B. 3076
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Health


Signed into law 02/2001

P-12

Revises procedure for self-administration by pupils of medication for asthma or a potentially life-threatening illness; replaces liability requirements by a grant of immunity for those acting in good faith in accordance with statutes; allows pupil who is allowed to self-administer medication to carry an inhaler, provided pupil does not endanger himself or others via misuse; requires public schools to have and maintain an accessible nebulizer; provides training for school nurses or personnel.
Title: S.B. 1372
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Students--Records/Rights


Conditional veto by governor 12/2000

P-12

*****Returned to ASSEMBLY., provides that prior to a school district administering certain academic or nonacademic surveys, assessments, analyses, evaluations or comprehensive guidance or counseling values clarifications programs to its students it must first receive written informed consent from a student's parent or guardian and must provide a copy of the document for viewing at convenient locations and time periods.
Title: A.B. 2351
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

At-Risk (incl. Dropout Prevention)


Signed into law 11/2000

P-12

Relates to State aid for school districts with concentrations of low-income pupils; establishes minimum period of school district eligibility for early childhood and demonstrably effective program aids; provides budget cap exclusion for demonstrably effective program aid.
Title: S.B. 838
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Choice of Schools--Charter Schools


Signed into law 11/2000

P-12

Establishes required funding level for charter school students; revises procedure for evaluation of the charter school program.
Title: A.B. 1344
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

P-3


Signed into law 11/2000

P-12

Establishes a Division of Early Childhood Education in the Department of Education; states the division shall be responsible for program standards, staff credentials, program design and facilities, the coordination of early childhood programs and services in cooperation with the Department of Human Services, funding, assistance to school districts to implement programs and evaluation and monitoring of programs; provides for a report to the Legislature and the public.
Title: A.B. 2123
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

P-3


Signed into law 11/2000

P-12

Establishes the Commission on Early Childhood Education in but not of the Department of Education; provides for its membership and appointment of members; provides for the commission to provide advice on early childhood issues such as staff credentials for pre-school educators, program standards, development of facility standards, coordination of such programs across State agencies and funding levels for trained teachers, curriculum, materials and facilities.
Title: A.B. 2122
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Finance--Taxes/Revenues


Vetoed 10/2000

P-12

Revises eligibility criteria of school districts for senior citizen stabilization aid; increases per pupil aid amount; states additional supplemental stabilization aid shall be paid to any district located in whole or in part in a municipality that has a population of 30% senior citizens; provides the aid shall be equal to $ 500 multiplied by the districts residential enrollment who reside in such a municipality; provides a region school district tax levy calculation formula.
Title: S.B. 110
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Curriculum


Signed into law 09/2000

P-12

Revises the mission of the New Jersey School of Arts to provide assistance to secondary schools in meeting Visual and Performance Arts Standards; appropriates funds.
Title: A.B. 2175
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Finance--Facilities


Signed into law 09/2000

Postsec.

Increases the amount of bonds and notes which may be issued to provide additional State support for county colleges; states said bonds and notes may be issued by the County Board of Freeholders or the New Jersey Educational Facilities Authority, after certification by State Treasurer that additional support is necessary; provides State aid for debt services be paid in accordance with the amount of bonds or notes issued; provides bonds are not a liability of the State.
Title: S.B. 1311
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

P-3


Signed into law 09/2000

P-12

Exempts child care centers operated by a non-profit organization in a public school building from radon testing and certain other requirements.
Title: S.B. 982
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Private Schools


Signed into law 09/2000

P-12

Provides transportation or in-lieu-of payments to certain nonpublic school pupils in certain school districts. Permits the purchase of such services from cooperative transportation service agencies.
Title: A.B. 1337, AB 1674
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Career/Technical Education


Signed into law 06/2000

P-12

Exempts minors from child labor laws by authorizing them to participate in educational programs in science sponsored by private sector.
Title: S.B. 987
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Finance--Facilities


Signed into law 06/2000

Postsec.

Requires installation of automatic fire suppression systems in all dormitories at public or private institutions of higher education.
Title: S.B. 891
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Finance--Facilities


Signed into law 06/2000

P-12,
Postsec.

Concerns the Educational Facilities Construction and Financing Act; concerns the construction and financing of public school facilities.
Title: S.B. 200
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

School/District Structure/Operations--Transportation


Signed into law 06/2000

P-12

Extends the period for a judge to issue a summons for illegally passing a school bus and certain other motor vehicle and traffic violations.
Title: A.B. 622
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Health


Signed into law 05/2000

P-12

Requires the Department of Health And Senior Services to establish public awareness campaign about meningitis; requires all institutions of higher education to notify prospective students about meningitis vaccination.
Title: S.B. 808
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Online Learning--Digital/Blended Learning


Signed into law 02/2000

P-12

Permits aid to nonpublic schools for electronic textbooks; defines electronic textbooks as including computer software, computer-assisted instruction, interactive videodisks, and other computer courseware and magnetic media.
Title: A.B. 1762
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Choice of Schools--Choice/Open Enrollment


Signed into law 01/2000

P-12

Creates the Interdistrict Public School Choice Program Act of 1999; appropriates funds for program to establish choice districts which could enroll students across district lines in choice district schools.
Title: S.B. 2171
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Choice of Schools--Choice/Open Enrollment


Signed into law 01/2000

P-12

Provides increased representation on receiving district boards of education for certain sending districts.
Title: S.B. 2212
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

P-3 Grades 1-3


Signed into law 01/2000

P-12

Provides additional State aid to support full-day kindergarten programs in charter schools located in the Abbott districts.
Title: A.B. 2773
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

Private Schools


Signed into law 01/2000

P-12

Requires a board of education providing certain services to nonpublic school pupils to provide consultation with representatives of the nonpublic school on any change in the provision of services; includes special education, speech therapy, bilingual education and remedial education services.
Title: A.B. 3270
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet

School/District Structure/Operations


Signed into law 01/2000

P-12

Provides regionalization incentive aid for K-12 school districts with an enrollment greater than 10,000 pupils.
Title: A.B. 3290
Source: Lexis-Nexis/StateNet