Establishes grant program in DOE for school districts to implement animal therapy programs.

This bill establishes a New Jersey Department of Education grant program to fund school districts implementing therapy animal programs in wellness centers or counseling offices. School districts must apply with plans for using therapy animals to support student wellness, safety protocols for students/staff/animals, and other required details. The program selects two districts per region (south, central, north) annually, prioritizing urban, suburban, and rural representation, with grants covering teacher training fees for therapy animals. Participating districts must submit annual reports on program impacts, and the commissioner will report findings to the Governor and Legislature.