Revises process for use of virtual or remote instruction to meet minimum 180-day school year requirement.

New Jersey's S 426 revises how school districts can count virtual or remote instruction days toward the state's 180-day school year requirement. It allows districts to use virtual days during declared emergencies (like public health crises) without prior commissioner approval, provided they submit a plan within 30 days. For non-emergency closures (e.g., weather), districts need superintendent approval for up to 10 days or commissioner approval for longer periods. The bill also requires equal access to virtual instruction for students with disabilities, including services outlined in their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and mandates the commissioner to issue guidance on tech access, instruction length, and impacts on school meals and testing.