New Jersey Senate Bill S2319

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/21/22
• Refer: 3/21/22

Caption

Establishes "New Jersey College Ready Students Program Act"; provides tuition-free dual enrollment opportunities at county college for certain high school students.

Impact

Under this act, the Commissioner of Education, in coordination with the Secretary of Higher Education, is tasked with establishing the program guidelines and determining eligibility. Eligible students can receive up to three credits per semester, with a maximum of six credits during their 11th and 12th grades. To maintain their status, students are required to achieve a grade of C or higher in their courses. The program's funding will come from the state, ensuring that qualified students do not have to bear tuition costs.

Summary

Senate Bill S2319 establishes the 'New Jersey College Ready Students Program Act,' which aims to facilitate tuition-free enrollment for eligible public high school students in dual enrollment courses at county colleges. The intent behind this legislation is to promote higher education accessibility, particularly for students from families demonstrating financial need. This initiative is coupled with criteria that assure the academic preparedness of students seeking to participate in such programs.

Contention

While the bill is generally viewed positively as a means to enhance education and provide opportunities for underprivileged students, it may face contention regarding its implementation. Critics might raise concerns over the standards set for college readiness, fearing that these could inadvertently exclude some students who could otherwise benefit. Additionally, the administrative demands of aligning local high schools with county colleges could face scrutiny, particularly regarding the logistics and planning necessary to effectively manage dual enrollment agreements.