This bill requires New Jersey high schools to teach cybersecurity to students in grades nine through twelve, with the state education commissioner creating curriculum guidelines that cover basic computer skills, internet safety, and career pathways. It also directs the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education to develop model curricula for four-year universities and county colleges to help them design cybersecurity degree programs that meet accreditation standards. Additionally, the bill establishes loan redemption programs for individuals working in specific cybersecurity occupations, though the exact terms of these financial incentives are not detailed in the text provided. The legislation aims to build a pipeline of skilled cybersecurity professionals by integrating education from high school through higher education.
This bill creates a new program within New Jersey's Department of Education to offer extended learning time opportunities, such as before and after school programs, in specific communities affected by high cannabis-related crime and poverty. It designates "impact zones" as municipalities that meet certain criteria related to marijuana arrests, crime rates, and unemployment, and requires these districts to develop and implement programs that provide academic and enrichment services during non-school hours. The program will be funded using a portion of state cannabis revenue, and districts must hold public hearings and submit detailed plans outlining services, staffing, schedules, and costs for approval by the state education commissioner.
This bill allows school districts in New Jersey to offer one-time virtual or remote instruction to students attending public schools that are designated as polling places for a special election on April 16, 2026. The measure permits districts to count the day of remote instruction toward the state's 180-day school attendance requirement, provided the virtual learning program follows existing approval standards and students have access to necessary technology. School superintendents will have the authority to implement this instruction after consulting with the board of education and notifying all stakeholders. The provision applies only to this specific election and does not require districts to combine in-person and remote instruction on that day.
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This bill creates a new security grant program for private colleges and universities in New Jersey that are at high risk of violence, vandalism, or cyber attacks. The $5 million appropriation will fund security measures such as hiring personnel, purchasing protective equipment, and installing surveillance systems at eligible institutions. The Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness will manage the program, prioritizing schools that haven't recently received similar state or federal security funding. Private institutions must apply and explain how they plan to use the grant money for security improvements.
This bill creates the Supporting Educational and Entrepreneurial Development (S.E.E.D.) Program within New Jersey's Office of the Secretary of Higher Education to provide grants for student-led projects. The program will be managed by a seven-member board that includes the Secretary of Higher Education, a business representative, and five public members appointed by legislative and executive leaders. Grants are awarded through a competitive process based on project merit, feasibility, and applicant qualifications, with funds used to help projects become self-sustaining or qualify for additional funding. The S.E.E.D. Fund will be financed through state appropriations calculated based on student enrollment numbers at public institutions, plus interest earnings, with future funding levels adjusted based on project outcomes.
This bill requires New Jersey school districts to create procedures for reporting harassment, intimidation, and bullying online through their official websites. It mandates that districts update their existing anti-bullying policies to include an electronic reporting form accessible to students, parents, and staff. The law also maintains current requirements for written reports to principals within two school days and prohibits formal discipline based solely on anonymous reports. School districts must allow anonymous reporting while still following established investigation and disciplinary processes for confirmed incidents.
This bill requires all public and nonpublic schools in New Jersey to place at least one portable, FDA-approved anti-choking device in accessible locations such as cafeterias and school nurse offices. The devices must be unlocked and clearly marked with identifying signs during school hours and school-sponsored events. Schools must also develop policies for device use and ensure all staff receive training in airway management and choking response techniques. The Department of Education will reimburse schools for implementation costs and may accept private contributions to help fund these expenses.
This bill would remove eligibility for in-state tuition rates and certain state financial aid programs at New Jersey public colleges and universities for students without lawful immigration status. Under the proposed changes, only U.S. citizens and eligible noncitizens would qualify for these benefits, even if they meet other requirements like attending New Jersey high school for three years or more. The legislation also repeals existing provisions that allowed some undocumented students to participate in these programs, while leaving unchanged the eligibility rules for students holding T or U visas or dependents of certain visa holders.
This bill makes students in New Jersey ineligible for state financial aid if they are convicted of hazing or aggravated hazing. It directly affects students who receive state-administered financial assistance and have been legally convicted of these offenses under New Jersey law. The key provision amends the state's financial aid statutes to explicitly disqualify convicted individuals from receiving aid, creating a penalty tied to the conviction rather than just the act itself. The measure takes effect immediately upon passage and applies to all forms of state student financial aid programs.
This bill increases financial aid to New Jersey municipalities within the Highlands Region that host watershed lands, ensuring they receive compensation similar to those already eligible for watershed moratorium offset aid. It also directs that at least 25% of these funds be used for school funding purposes. Additionally, the bill adjusts how money from the Global Warming Solutions Fund is allocated, specifying that 60% supports energy efficiency and renewable energy projects, 20% assists low- and moderate-income residential electricity programs, and 10% helps local governments reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The legislation requires the State Treasurer to include these funding amounts in annual budget requests and mandates the Legislature to appropriate the necessary funds.
