New Jersey Assembly Bill A5077

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/9/24
• Refer: 12/9/24
• Report Pass: 12/12/24
• Engrossed: 12/19/24
• Refer: 1/14/25
• Report Pass: 5/12/25
• Engrossed: 6/2/25
• Enrolled: 6/30/25
• Chaptered: 6/30/25
• Passed: 6/30/25

Caption

Extends statutory pause on collection of student growth objective data.

Impact

The implications of A5077 on state laws involve a significant change in how educator evaluations are conducted throughout the state. Currently, the law requires that educators collect specific data related to student growth objectives for their evaluations. By pausing this requirement, the bill seeks to alleviate pressure on teachers and administration alike during a critical period of transition in educational evaluation practices. Additionally, it sets the stage for the eventual implementation of updated collection guidelines based on future regulatory developments.

Summary

Assembly Bill A5077 proposes the extension of the statutory pause on the collection of student growth objective data for educators in New Jersey. The bill amends existing laws pertaining to teacher evaluations, ensuring that during the 2024-2025 school year and subsequent years, only existing data from prior years will be utilized for evaluations, rather than collecting new data. This approach aims to simplify the evaluation process for educators while the state develops new guidelines for the assessment of student growth objectives.

Sentiment

The discussion surrounding A5077 appears to be generally supportive among educators and lawmakers who believe that the bill will provide needed relief in a time of evolution within educational assessment. Supporters argue that by reducing the immediate burden of data collection, teachers can focus more on instruction rather than evaluation logistics. However, there may also be concerns among some stakeholders about the long-term effectiveness of relying on previously collected data, particularly in ensuring accountability and academic growth.

Contention

Notable points of contention in the discussions related to A5077 revolve around the potential impacts on educational accountability and standards. Critics of the bill may argue that halting the collection of new data could lead to gaps in performance tracking and accountability for educators. There may be further debate on how this extended pause will affect the evaluations of new teachers versus experienced educators, particularly regarding the setting of student growth objectives and administrative goals.