Establishes three-year pilot program in DOE to provide certain students with information and assistance regarding federal financial aid application.
Impact
Under A3878, participating school districts must submit proposals outlining their commitments to train staff or volunteers on FAFSA completion and to allocate class time for student instruction. The Commissioner of Education will select a total of twelve school districts (four from each of the state’s three regions: southern, central, and northern) to implement this pilot program. Once selected, school districts are tasked with ensuring that students receive relevant information about FAFSA at least once before they graduate, which may be delivered through various channels such as classroom instruction, family sessions, or school counseling.
Summary
Assembly Bill A3878 aims to establish a three-year pilot program in the New Jersey Department of Education to provide guidance and assistance to students applying for federal financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The program is designed to ensure that every 12th-grade student has adequate access to resources and instruction that will facilitate the proper completion and submission of the FAFSA. This initiative seeks to increase the number of students who are informed and prepared to apply for federal financial aid, thereby enhancing their opportunities for higher education.
Contention
While the bill has broad support for its objective of increasing access to financial aid, there may be concerns regarding the equitable distribution of resources and support across different types of school districts. Critics may argue about the adequacy of support for urban vs. rural districts and whether the program will standardize access among diverse populations. The program’s success will be evaluated, and the Commissioner must submit a report at the conclusion of the pilot phase, which may include recommendations for statewide implementation dependent on its effectiveness.
Same As
Establishes three-year pilot program in DOE to provide certain students with information and assistance regarding federal financial aid application.
Carry Over
Establishes three-year pilot program in DOE to provide certain students with information and assistance regarding federal financial aid application.
Prohibits school districts from incorporating instruction on sexual orientation or gender identity for students in grades kindergarten through six; requires consent from parents or guardians for students in grades seven through 12 for instruction on sexual orientation or gender identity.