NJ
New Jersey Assembly Bill A2720

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A2720

Introduced
1/9/24  

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, A2720 would modify the current educational standards under the New Jersey Student Learning Standards, specifically P.L. 2021, c.32. It reflects a shift towards providing targeted, age-appropriate education in diversity and inclusion, which the bill's supporters argue is essential for fostering understanding among older students. Schools would still be expected to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, but the bill narrows the scope to a particular age group, potentially altering the overall approach to these themes within earlier grades.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2720 seeks to amend existing New Jersey law regarding the incorporation of diversity and inclusion instruction within school curricula. Specifically, the bill limits the requirement for school districts to provide such instruction only for students in grades 9 through 12. Previously, the law mandated that diversity education be part of the curriculum for students from kindergarten through grade 12. The objective of this adjustment is to focus on age appropriateness, suggesting that the complexities of diversity concepts are more suited to high school students than to younger children.

Contention

The bill has sparked a range of responses among stakeholders in the education community. Proponents believe that focusing on higher grades allows for more nuanced discussions about diversity issues, which are critical for developing informed citizens. However, opponents argue that this change undermines foundational learning opportunities for younger students, who could benefit from early exposure to diversity concepts. Thus, the debate centers around whether the timing of such instruction can influence societal attitudes and the importance of fostering inclusion from an early age.

Latest A2720 Activity

Companion Bills

NJ A891

Carry Over 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.

Previously Filed As

NJ A891

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 S419

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 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 A3222

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

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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