New Jersey Assembly Bill AJR134

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/22
• Refer: 3/7/22

Caption

Designates September of each year as "School Absentee Awareness Month."

Impact

The essence of AJR134 is to encourage schools, parents, and communities to collaborate actively to promote good attendance. It emphasizes the need for effective monitoring and data-sharing across school districts to identify students who struggle with chronic absenteeism. By designating September as a month for specific focus on these issues, the resolution intends to mobilize public awareness and encourage initiatives that foster better student engagement and support.

Summary

Assembly Joint Resolution No. 134, introduced in New Jersey, designates September of each year as 'School Absentee Awareness Month.' The bill aims to raise awareness about the issue of chronic school absenteeism, which is identified as a significant barrier to academic success and a contributing factor to increased dropout rates and juvenile delinquency. The resolution acknowledges that various systemic issues, including transportation challenges, unstable housing, and inadequate access to healthcare, disproportionately affect students' ability to attend school consistently.

Contention

While the bill's intent to combat chronic absenteeism may be widely supported, potential points of contention could arise regarding the accountability measures and resources necessary for schools and communities to effectively respond to the issues highlighted. Critics might raise concerns about insufficient funding or overarching bureaucratic processes that could hinder the implementation of proposed programs. Nonetheless, the resolution primarily serves as a call for awareness rather than imposing strict regulations, which may alleviate some concerns regarding legislative overreach.