Requires board of education to directly employ certain professionals; permits board of education to contract for certain personnel; permits use of virtual or remote instruction for public school students in certain circumstances.

This bill requires New Jersey public school boards to directly employ certified professionals for most instructional and support roles, such as teachers and instructional staff, rather than contracting for these services. Boards may apply for Commissioner-approved exemptions to contract for specific personnel, including substitute teachers, staff for alternative education programs, and special education services, to address program needs. The bill also permits contracting for roles like those providing financial literacy instruction, individualized learning opportunities, or dual-enrollment courses without direct employment. These provisions aim to ensure certified staff directly serve students while allowing flexibility for essential program support.