Establishes three-year pilot program in DOE to support school district programs to increase length of school day or school year.
Impact
If enacted, the bill is intended to help mitigate the educational impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic by allowing districts to extend learning time, which could ultimately improve academic outcomes for students. It provides a structured approach to extending instructional time while also facilitating equity in educational opportunities for students in need. The Commissioner of Education is responsible for reviewing applications and awarding funds competitively, ensuring that resources are allocated to those areas with the most pressing needs.
Summary
Senate Bill S1559 establishes a three-year pilot program under the New Jersey Department of Education aimed at supporting school districts that wish to increase the length of the school day or the school year. The program will prioritize districts demonstrating high levels of academic need, as evidenced by statewide assessment results, graduation rates, and dropout rates. Up to 20 districts from across New Jersey will be selected to participate, with an allocation of up to $1 million in funding annually for each district to cover costs associated with the extended learning initiatives.
Contention
The implementation of S1559 may lead to debates surrounding the availability of funding and whether extended school days or years can effectively address learning gaps exacerbated by the pandemic. Critics may question if simply extending time will enhance educational quality, or if a more comprehensive approach is needed to boost student engagement and performance. Furthermore, logistical concerns such as increased transportation costs and staffing could also spark discussions about the long-term sustainability of such a program.
Additional_info
Selected districts will need to report back on attendance and participation, ensuring accountability and providing data for evaluating the effectiveness of the pilot program. The bill mandates that a thorough assessment of the program's outcomes will be delivered to the Governor and Legislature, which will inform future educational funding and policy decisions.
Establishes a pilot program in DOE to increase the length of the school day and school year and provides tax credits for corporate contributions to fund the program.
Relating to a grant program for certain school districts to provide summer instruction primarily for students who are educationally disadvantaged and summer teaching opportunities for high-performing, new, and student teachers.
Makes various changes to provision of preschool aid and facilities requirements; establishes Universal Preschool Implementation Steering Committee; requires full-day kindergarten in all school districts.
Fully funded summer school program created, voluntary integration and inclusion program established, voluntary metro-wide interdistrict integration program established, diverse magnet school program established, minimum pay for teachers required, and money appropriated.
Makes various changes to provision of preschool aid and facilities requirements; establishes Universal Preschool Implementation Steering Committee; requires full-day kindergarten in all school districts.