New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A891

Introduced
1/11/22  

Caption

Limits requirements for school districts to include instructions on diversity and inclusion as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards to grades 9 through 12.

Impact

If enacted, A891 will realign how educational standards regarding diversity and inclusion are implemented in New Jersey. School districts will be required to focus on integrating these important topics into the curriculum at the high school level. Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the need to highlight and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in connection with various aspects such as gender identity, race, and abilities. This shift in focus could have significant implications for the training and materials used by educators and how these topics are presented to students.

Summary

Assembly Bill A891 aims to amend existing laws related to diversity and inclusion instruction in New Jersey schools. Specifically, the bill seeks to limit the requirement for school districts to provide diversity and inclusion education to students in grades 9 through 12 only, rather than the previous requirement that included all grades from kindergarten through 12. This legislative change reflects growing discussions around the appropriateness of such subject matter for younger children, with the intent that high school students are better suited to engage with these complex topics.

Contention

The consideration of A891 is likely to ignite discussions among educators, parents, and policymakers about the effectiveness and timing of diversity and inclusion education. Proponents of the bill may argue that it will lead to more age-appropriate discussions about these subjects, while critics might contend that limiting such education to high school could hinder the development of empathy and understanding of diversity in younger students, thereby delaying the necessary groundwork for future discussions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NJ A2720

Limits requirements for school districts to include instructions on diversity and inclusion as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards to grades 9 through 12.

NJ A3824

Removes diversity and inclusion instruction requirements for students in grades kindergarten through eight.

NJ S2385

Removes diversity and inclusion instruction requirements for students in grades kindergarten through eight.

NJ S419

Removes diversity and inclusion instruction requirements for students in grades kindergarten through eight.

NJ A3222

Requires school districts to include instruction on conflict resolution as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards.

NJ S4409

Repeals law that requires diversity and inclusion instruction for public school students in grades kindergarten through 12.

NJ A5560

Repeals law that requires diversity and inclusion instruction for public school students in grades kindergarten through 12.

NJ A1517

Requires school districts to provide anti-bias instruction as part of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Social Studies; requires school districts to designate chief equity officer or affirmative action officer.

NJ S3106

Requires school districts to provide anti-bias instruction as part of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education; requires school districts to designate chief equity officer.

NJ A2022

Requires school districts to include instruction on bullying awareness and prevention as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.

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