New Jersey Assembly Bill A2850

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Exempts certain students with disabilities from requirement to take college credits during Bridge Year Pilot Program; modifies age eligibility criteria under program.

Impact

The bill modifies the eligibility criteria for the Bridge Year Pilot Program, allowing students who are about to turn 21 during their bridge year, due to IEP services, to participate. This change is crucial as it expands opportunities for students who might otherwise be excluded based on their age. By providing options for vocational and educational programs in lieu of college credits, the bill enhances educational access for students with disabilities, supporting their overall development and potential career pathways.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2850 focuses on adapting the existing Bridge Year Pilot Program by specifically accommodating students with disabilities. The bill proposes to exempt certain students identified as classified under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) from the requirement to take college credits during their bridge year if such coursework is deemed not beneficial in meeting their individualized education program (IEP) goals. This adjustment aims to create a more personalized educational plan that better reflects the unique needs of these students, fostering their transition from high school to post-secondary opportunities.

Contention

While the bill has the potential to greatly benefit students with disabilities, discussions may arise concerning the adequacy of substitutes for college coursework, as critics may argue that these alternatives could limit academic rigor. Additionally, the need for collaboration between school staff and the IEP team may raise questions about the resource allocation and support available for these collaborative processes. The effectiveness of the bridge year as a remedy for learning loss due to the pandemic also remains under scrutiny, as stakeholders assess how well these provisions deliver intended educational outcomes.