New Jersey Assembly Bill A2984

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/22
• Refer: 2/28/22

Caption

Directs State Board of Education to establish program for issuance of temporary teaching certificate to certain students in educator preparation programs; permits school districts to hire these students as teachers for 2020-2021 school year.

Impact

The implementation of A2984 could significantly alter the landscape of teacher certification in New Jersey by providing an alternative pathway for aspiring teachers to gain experience while completing their educational qualifications. It allows for flexibility in hiring practices during the specific school year, potentially alleviating shortages in teaching positions, particularly in critical subject areas. Furthermore, the bill accommodates the fulfillment of clinical practice requirements for educator preparation programs, recognizing the teaching experience gained by these students as legitimate practice, thus encouraging this workforce entry.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2984 directs the State Board of Education to establish a program for issuing temporary teaching certificates to students who are in the final year of an educator preparation program at a recognized four-year institution in New Jersey. The bill permits school districts to hire these students as teachers for the 2020-2021 school year, allowing them to take up full-time or part-time teaching positions related to their intended instructional endorsements. This initiative aims to address staffing shortages in schools and to provide practical teaching experience to students on the verge of completing their educational qualifications.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding A2984 may involve discussions on the adequacy of temporary teaching certificates and the preparedness of students to assume teaching roles. Critics may question whether employing students with temporary certification is appropriate for maintaining educational standards, particularly in classrooms where experienced educators are typically preferred. Additionally, concerns about the effectiveness of supervision and mentoring for these temporary teachers could arise, prompting debates on balancing immediate staffing needs with the quality of education provided.