N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-1 School year
The school year for all schools in the public school system shall begin on July 1 and end on June 30.
L.1967, c.271.
N.J. Stat. tit. 18A, ch. 36
N.J. Stat. tit. 18A, ch. 36
in effectN.J. Stat. § 18A:36-2 Time when schools are open; determination
The board of education shall determine annually the dates, between which the schools of the district shall be open, in accordance with law.
L.1967, c.271.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-3 Display of and salute to flag; pledge of allegiance
Every board of education shall: (a) Procure a United States flag, flagstaff and necessary appliances therefor for each school in the district and display such flag upon or near the public school building during school hours; (b) Procure a United States flag, flagstaff and necessary appliances or standard therefor for each assembly room and each classroom in each school, and display such flag in the assembly room and each classroom during school hours and at such other time as the board of education may deem proper; and (c) Require the pupils in each school in the district on every school day to salute the United States flag and repeat the following pledge of allegiance to the flag: "I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all," which salute and pledge of allegiance shall be rendered with the right hand over the heart, except that pupils who have conscientious scruples against such pledge or salute, or are children of accredited representatives of foreign governments to whom the United States government extends diplomatic immunity, shall not be required to render such salute and pledge but shall be required to show full respect to the flag while the pledge is being given merely by standing at attention, the boys removing the headdress.
L.1967, c.271.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-4 Period of silence
Principals and teachers in each public elementary and secondary school of each school district in this State shall permit students to observe a 1 minute period of silence to be used solely at the discretion of the individual student, before the opening exercises of each school day for quiet and private contemplation or introspection. L.1982, c. 205, s. 1, eff. Dec. 17, 1982.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-5 "Special Education Week" designated.
2. The week beginning with the second Sunday in May of each year is designated as "Special Education Week" in the State of New Jersey in order to give the citizens of this State the opportunity to recognize the contribution of public school board members, schools, and agencies for students with disabilities, educators, parents, and the students themselves, and to commend them for their dedication to ensuring quality education for students with disabilities in this State. L.1995, c.104, s.2; amended 2017, c.131, s.25.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-5.1 "School Violence Awareness Week"; designated.
2. The week beginning with the third Monday in October of each year is designated as "School Violence Awareness Week" in the State of New Jersey. School districts shall observe this week by organizing activities to prevent school violence including, but not limited to, age-appropriate opportunities for student discussion on conflict resolution, issues of student diversity, and tolerance. Law enforcement personnel shall be invited to join members of the teaching staff in the discussions. Programs shall also be provided for school board employees that are designed to help them recognize warning signs of school violence and to instruct them on recommended conduct during an incident of school violence. The Department of Education shall provide guidelines and information to boards of education for use in planning the activities in observance of the week and such funds as are necessary to pay the costs of the required activities and programs. L.2001, c.298, s.2; amended 2007, c.42, s.4.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-6 Observance of flag day
The principals and teachers in the public schools shall make suitable arrangements for the celebration, by appropriate exercises among the pupils in the schools, of June 14 in each year, as the day of the adoption of the American flag by the Continental congress.
L.1967, c.271.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-7 Designation of Arbor Day
For the purpose of encouraging the planting of shade and forest trees and the designation of a uniform day throughout the nation, the last Friday of April in each year is hereby designated as a day for the general observance of that purpose, and shall be known as Arbor Day.
L.1967, c.271.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-10 Designation of Commodore Barry Day
September 13 in each year shall be known as Commodore John Barry Day, except when such day shall fall on Saturday, then the day preceding, or on Sunday, then the day following.
L.1967, c.271.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-11 Observance of Commodore Barry Day
It shall be the duty of the authorities of every public school in this state to assemble the pupils in their charge on such day in the school building, or elsewhere, as they may deem proper, and to provide for and conduct such exercises or instructions as shall tend to (1) acquaint such pupils with the achievements of Commodore John Barry, "father of the American navy," and (2) honor the memory of Commodore Barry.
L.1967, c.271.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-12 Exercises on Commodore Barry Day
The commissioner shall prescribe a course of exercises or instructions which shall be adopted and observed by public school authorities on Commodore John Barry Day.
L.1967, c.271.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-13 Patriotic exercises preceding holidays.
18A:36-13. Appropriate exercises for the development of a higher spirit of patriotism shall be held in all public schools on the last school day preceding Washington's Birthday (also celebrated as President's Day), Decoration or Memorial Day, Columbus Day, and Veterans Day. Amended 2007, c.42, s.7.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-13.1 Observation of certain holidays by school district.
5. A school district may conduct a course of exercises or instruction in accordance with the core curriculum content standards to observe holidays, including, but not limited to, Lincoln's Birthday, Thanksgiving Day, and Arbor Day. L.2007, c.42, s.5.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-13.2 Excused absence for certain pupils on Veterans Day.
1. a. Notwithstanding any law, rule, or regulation to the contrary, any pupil of a public school who is absent from school on November 11, Veterans Day, attending a ceremony honoring a veteran or a member of the United States Armed Forces or the New Jersey National Guard returning from overseas deployments, or assisting a veteran at a hospital, food shelter, or any similar facility, shall have the absence for those reasons recorded as an excused absence on the pupil's attendance record or on that of any group or class of which he is a member. Any transcript, application, employment form, or any similar form on which information concerning a pupil's attendance record is requested shall show, with respect to absences, only absences other than excused absences authorized pursuant to this subsection. In making a determination on whether or not a student has a perfect attendance record for the school year, a school district shall not consider as an absence an excused absence authorized pursuant to this subsection. b. A pupil shall provide such documentation as the superintendent or administrative principal of the school district deems necessary to prove the pupil meets the requirements for the excused absence under subsection a. of this section. c. As used in this section, "veteran" means a person who has served on active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States and who was discharged or released therefrom under conditions other than dishonorable. L.2015, c.297, s.1.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-14 Religious holidays; absence of pupils on; effect
No pupil of any public school, who shall be absent, by reason of observance of a religious holiday, from such school at any time when the same is in session, shall by reason of such absence be deprived of any award or of eligibility or opportunity to compete for any award, or of the right to take an alternate test or examination, for any which he missed by reason of such absence, if a written excuse signed by a parent of, or person standing in loco parentis to, the pupil be presented to the proper school authority.
L.1967, c.271.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-15 Absence because of religious holidays as excused absence
Any absence because of religious holidays shall be recorded as excused absence on the pupil's attendance record or on that of any group or class of which he is a member, and any transcript or application or employment form or any similar form on which information concerning a pupil's attendance record is requested shall show, with respect to absences, only absences other than absences excused because of religious holidays.
L.1967, c.271.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-16 Rules regarding religious holidays
The commissioner, with the approval of the state board, shall prescribe rules relative to absences for religious holidays including, but not limited to, a list of holidays on which it shall be mandatory to excuse a pupil, but nothing herein contained shall be construed to limit the right of any board of education, at its discretion, to excuse absence on any other day by reason of the observance of a religious holiday.
L.1967, c.271.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-17 Credit of seniors in active military and naval service, etc.
Any pupil or student who has completed or shall complete the work of the junior year in any of the public high schools or educational institutions and who heretofore and subsequent to July 1, 1940, entered, or hereafter in time of war, shall enter the active military or naval service of the United States or the active service of the United States merchant marine or the active service of the women's army corps, the women's reserve of the naval reserve or any similar organization authorized by the United States to serve with the army or navy, or the active military or naval service of the Dominion of Canada, or who in time of emergency heretofore entered or hereafter shall serve on active duty with the armed forces of the United States, and who continued or shall continue to attend the regular sessions in any of the public high schools or educational institutions until 21 days prior to such entry and whose school work has been satisfactory until 21 days prior to such entry, shall be given credit for the work of the complete senior year without examination, and shall be entitled to and receive the diploma, certificate, degree, or other credentials or standings awarded to those pupils or students of the school or institution who have satisfactorily completed the work of the said senior year. As used in this section the term "in time of emergency" shall mean and include any time after June 23, 1950, and prior to the termination, suspension or revocation of the proclamation of the existence of a national emergency issued by the president of the United States on December 16, 1950, or termination of the existence of such national emergency by appropriate action of the president or congress of the United States.
L.1967, c.271.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-18 Books containing organic laws at graduation
The board of education of every school district shall have printed and suitably bound in book form, copies of the Declaration of Independence, the constitution of the United States and the amendments thereto, and the constitution of the state of New Jersey and the amendments thereto, and a copy of such book shall be presented to each pupil upon his graduation from any elementary school.
L.1967, c.271.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-19 Pupil records; creation, maintenance and retention, security and access; regulations; nonliability
The State Board of Education shall provide by regulation for the creation, maintenance and retention of pupil records and for the security thereof and access thereto, to provide general protection for the right of the pupil to be supplied with necessary information about herself or himself, the right of the parent or guardian and the adult pupil to be supplied with full information about the pupil, except as may be inconsistent with reasonable protection of the persons involved, the right of both pupil and parent or guardian to reasonable privacy as against other persons and the opportunity for the public schools to have the data necessary to provide a thorough and efficient educational system for all pupils. No liability shall attach to any member, officer or employee of any board of education for the furnishing of any pupil records consistent with this act and the regulations adopted hereunder. L.1967, c.271; amended by L.1977, c. 346, s. 1.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-19a Student records.
1. The chief school administrator or the administrator's designee of any local school district that enrolls a new student shall request, in writing, the student's records from the school district of last attendance within two weeks from the date that the student enrolls in the new school district. The school district of last attendance shall provide to the receiving district all information in the student's record related to disciplinary actions taken against the student by the district and notify the receiving district, in writing, if it has obtained any information pursuant to section 1 of P.L.1982, c.79 (C.2A:4A-60) or section 1 of P.L.2009, c.157 (C.2C:43-5.1). If the receiving district, after having requested in writing the student's records from the school district of last attendance, does not receive those records, it shall use every available means to obtain the records. If the school district of last attendance does not receive a written request for the student's records within two weeks of the student's transfer, it shall use every available means to determine which local school district the student has enrolled in, and to send the student's records, including any information received regarding criminal history pursuant to section 1 of P.L.1982, c.79 (C.2A:4A-60) or section 1 of P.L.2009, c.157 (C.2C:43-5.1), to that district. Written consent of the parent or adult student shall not be required as a condition of transfer of this information; however, written notice of the transfer shall be provided to the parent or adult student. Additionally, the school district shall obtain proper identification of any new student such as a certified copy of the student's certificate of birth. L.1986, c.160, s.1; amended 2002, c.63, s.1; 2009, c.157, s.2.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-19b Student placement liaison.
5. a. The chief school administrator or lead person of a public school, including a charter school, shall designate a staff member to serve as a student placement liaison. b. It shall be the responsibility of the student placement liaison to: (1) coordinate with a new student’s school of last attendance and the parent or guardian of a new student to ensure the successful transition of the student; (2) coordinate with an exiting student’s subsequent educational placement, including when placement occurs at an alternative education program, and the student’s parent or guardian to ensure the successful transition of the student; and (3) regularly track and maintain student enrollment data, including information on student transfers into or out of the public school, to ensure State school aid is provided in accordance with State law and regulation. L.2025, c.276, s.5.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-19.1 Military recruitment in public schools
Local school districts in New Jersey are directed to establish policies which would provide military recruiters the same access to school facilities and student information directories that is provided to educational and occupational recruiters pursuant to regulations adopted by the State Board of Education pursuant to the "Administrative Procedure Act," P.L. 1968, c. 410 (C. 52:14B-1 et seq.). These regulations shall be adopted within 180 days of the effective date of this act. The policies should be consistent with State and federal right to privacy laws. L. 1985, c. 51, s. 1, eff. Feb. 21, 1985.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-19.2 School locker inspection
The principal or other official designated by the local board of education may inspect lockers or other storage facilities provided for use by students so long as students are informed in writing at the beginning of each school year that inspections may occur. L. 1985, c. 198, s. 1, eff. June 26, 1985.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-20 Discrimination; prohibition
No pupil in a public school in this State shall be discriminated against in admission to, or in obtaining any advantages, privileges or courses of study of the school by reason of race, color, creed, sex or national origin. L.1973, c. 380, s. 1, eff. Jan. 14, 1974.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-21 Field trips; costs to be borne by parents or guardians, exceptions, financial hardship
Any board of education may authorize field trips for which all or part of the costs are borne by the pupils' parents or legal guardians, with the exception of pupils in special education classes and pupils with financial hardship. In determining financial hardship the criteria shall be the same as the Statewide eligibility standards for free and reduced price meals under the State school lunch program (N.J.A.C. 6:79-1.1 et seq.). L.1980, c. 49, s. 1, eff. June 26, 1980.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-22 "Field trip" defined
As used in this act "field trip" means a journey by a group of pupils, away from the school premises, under the supervision of a teacher. L.1980, c. 49, s. 2, eff. June 26, 1980.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-23 No student prohibited from attending field trip
No student shall be prohibited from attending a field trip due to inability to pay the fee regardless of whether or not they have met the financial hardship requirements set forth in section 1 of this act. L.1980, c. 49, s. 3, eff. June 26, 1980.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-24 Missing children; legislative findings and declarations
The legislature finds and declares: a. That there is a growing recognition of the prevalence and consequences of child abuse. b. That the removal of children from school constitutes a deprivation in itself and may be an indicator of even more grievous abuses. c. That the public schools can and should provide an early warning to the appropriate authorities when a child appears to be missing from the educational system. L.1984, c. 228, s. 1, eff. Dec. 28, 1984.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-25 Early detection of missing and abused children; policies of school districts
All school districts shall be required to establish policies designed to provide for the early detection of missing and abused children. These policies shall include provisions for the notification of the appropriate law enforcement and child welfare authorities when a potential missing or abused child situation is detected. This provision shall be complied with no later than March 1, 1985. L.1984, c. 228, 2, eff. Dec. 28, 1984.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-25.1 Certified copy of birth certificate required for enrollment in school, records
4. a. When a child is enrolled in a school district for the first time, the superintendent shall require the child's parent or legal guardian to provide a certified copy of the child's birth certificate or other proof of the child's identity, within 30 days of enrollment. If the child's parent or legal guardian refuses to comply with the requirement in this section, the superintendent shall notify the parent or guardian, in writing, that the matter will be referred to a law enforcement agency if the proof of identity is not provided within 10 days of the notice. b. When a child transfers from one school district to another, the receiving school district shall obtain the child's school record from the district from which the child has transferred, within 14 days of enrollment. The school district of last attendance shall provide to the receiving district all information in the child's record related to disciplinary actions taken against the child by the district and notify the receiving district if it has obtained any information pursuant to section 1 of P.L.1982, c.79 (C.2A:4A-60). Written consent of the parent or adult pupil shall not be required as a condition of transfer of this information; however, written notice of the transfer shall be provided to the parent or adult pupil If the record has been marked pursuant to section 2 of P.L.1995, c.395 (C.52:17B-9.8b), the transferring school district shall forward the record to the receiving school district and immediately notify the Missing Persons Unit in the Department of Law and Public Safety established pursuant to section 2 of P.L.1983, c.467 (C.52:17B-9.7). L.1995,c.395,s.4; amended 2002, c.63, s.2.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-25.2 Investigation, reporting of certain pupil absences, transfers.
1. a. If any child enrolled in a school district has an unexcused absence from school for five consecutive school days, the attendance officer of the district shall investigate the absence and notify the district superintendent of the absence. In the event the investigation leads the district superintendent to have reasonable cause to believe the child has been abused or neglected as defined in section 1 of P.L.1974, c.119 (C.9:6-8.21), the district superintendent shall then notify the Division of Child Protection and Permanency in the Department of Children and Families for its determination of whether the division is or has been involved with the child and whether action, as appropriate, is warranted. b. When a child's parent, guardian, or other person having charge and control of the child notifies a school district that the child will be withdrawing from the district and transferring to another school district, the principal of the school from which the child is withdrawing shall request that the parent, guardian, or other person having charge and control of the child provide the principal with the name and location of the school district in which the child will subsequently be enrolled and the expected date of enrollment. The principal shall provide the information supplied by the parent, guardian, or other person having charge and control of the child to the district superintendent. Five school days following the expected date of enrollment, the superintendent of the district of last attendance shall contact the school district in which the child is to be subsequently enrolled to determine if the child has enrolled in the district. If the child has not been so enrolled, the attendance officer of the transfer district shall investigate the failure to enroll and notify the superintendent of the transfer district of the failure to enroll. In the event the investigation leads the superintendent of the transfer district to have reasonable cause to believe the child has been abused or neglected as defined in section 1 of P.L.1974, c.119 (C.9:6-8.21), the superintendent of the transfer district shall then notify the Division of Child Protection and Permanency in the Department of Children and Families for its determination of whether the division is or has been involved with the child and whether action, as appropriate, is warranted. If the child has been so enrolled, the district of last attendance and the transfer district shall arrange for the transfer of the child's records in accordance with the provisions of section 1 of P.L.1986, c.160 (C.18A:36-19a) and subsection b. of section 4 of P.L.1995, c.395 (C.18A:36-25.1). c. School district policies for the early detection of missing and abused children required pursuant to section 2 of P.L.1984, c.228 (C.18A:36-25) shall include provisions to implement the requirements of this section. L.2007, c.248, s.1; amended 2012, c.16, s.42.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-25.3 Rules, regulations.
2. The Commissioner of Education, pursuant to the "Administrative Procedure Act," P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.), and in consultation with the Commissioner of Children and Families shall adopt rules and regulations necessary to effectuate the purposes of this act. L.2007, c.248, s.2.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-25.4 Short title.
1. This act shall be known and may be cited as "Tabitha's Law." L.2012, c.74, s.1.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-25.5 Findings, declarations relative to child abduction.
2. The Legislature finds and declares that when a child is abducted, the first few hours are absolutely critical in the recovery process; that the unexplained absence of a pupil from school can be a significant early warning sign of abduction; that although stranger abductions are rare, an efficient system of communication between school administrators and parents regarding a student's unexplained absence must be incorporated by our public school districts into their attendance systems; and that the benefits of this requirement will be realized even if only one child is saved as a result. L.2012, c.74, s.2.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-25.6 Report of absence.
3. a. Whenever a pupil enrolled in a public school district will be absent from school, the pupil's parent or guardian shall notify the principal or the principal's designee. b. If a pupil is determined to be absent without valid excuse from a public school, and if the reason for the student's absence is unknown to school personnel, the principal or the principal's designee shall immediately attempt to contact the pupil's parent or guardian to notify the parent or guardian of the absence and to determine the reason for the absence. L.2012, c.74, s.3.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-25.7 Task force on the prevention of, response to sexual abuse of children.
1. a. There is established within the Department of Education a task force on the prevention of, and response to, sexual abuse of children. The purpose of the task force shall be to study and make recommendations for reducing the prevalence and impact of child sexual abuse in the State, including recommendations for school policies and training concerning child sexual abuse prevention and response. b. The task force shall consist of the following 17 members: (1) the Commissioner of Education, or a designee; (2) the Commissioner of the Department of Children and Families, or a designee; (3) the President of the State Board of Education, or a designee; and (4) 14 public members appointed by the Governor, in consultation with the Department of Education, who shall include the following: (a) a representative from: the New Jersey School Boards Association; a New Jersey teachers union; the New Jersey Association of School Administrators; the New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association; the New Jersey Coalition Against Sexual Assault; Prevent Child Abuse New Jersey; New Jersey Child Assault Prevention (NJCAP); the New Jersey Association for the Treatment of Sexual Abusers; and the New Jersey Children's Alliance; (b) a licensed therapist trained to counsel or treat child sexual abuse victims; (c) a New Jersey county prosecutor; (d) an individual who has experience and expertise in the field of harassment, intimidation, and bullying policies; (e) a parent of a student enrolled in an elementary or secondary school in New Jersey; and (f) an individual who is a survivor of child sexual abuse. The appointment of public members shall reflect the geographic diversity of the State. c. Public members of the task force shall serve for a term of three years, except that of the initial appointments, four public members shall serve for one year, five public members shall serve for two years, and five public members shall serve for three years. Vacancies in the membership of the task force shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointments were made. Members are eligible for reappointment to the task force. d. The Commissioner of Education, or a designee, shall serve as chairperson of the task force. The task force shall meet at the call of the chairperson. The task force shall appoint a secretary who need not be a member of the task force. The task force, in its discretion, may divide its membership into subcommittees in the course of carrying out its duties. e. Members of the task force shall serve without compensation, but may be reimbursed for necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties as members of the task force within the limits of funds appropriated or otherwise made available to the task force for its purposes. L.2019, c.107, s.1.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-25.8 Provision of staff.
2. a. The Department of Education shall provide such stenographic, clerical, and other administrative assistants, and such professional staff as the task force requires to carry out its work. b. The task force shall be entitled to call to its assistance and avail itself of the services of the employees of any State, county, or municipal department, board, bureau, commission, or agency as it may require and as may be available for its purposes. L.2019, c.107, s.2.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-25.9 Consultation with State agencies, departments.
3. In executing its duties under this act, the task force shall consult with the employees of the Department of Children and Families who work on child protection matters, the New Jersey State Police, the State Board of Education, and any other State agency or department necessary to accomplish the task force's responsibilities. L.2019, c.107, s.3.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-25.10 Duties of task force.
4. a. It shall be the duty of the task force to make recommendations for reducing child sexual abuse in this State. The task force shall also make recommendations for school policies and training that address the sexual abuse of children. In making its recommendations, the task force shall do the following: (1) gather information concerning child sexual abuse throughout the State; (2) receive reports and testimony from individuals, State and local agencies, community-based organizations, and other public and private organizations; (3) review steps taken and programs established in other states to reduce child sexual abuse; (4) create goals for State policy that are aimed at preventing child sexual abuse; (5) create recommendations and guidelines for school policies addressing sexual abuse of children. The recommendations and guidelines shall be flexible enough to allow accommodation for local autonomy and values; (6) review current instructional programs or curricula provided in New Jersey schools on issues related to child sexual abuse, and create recommendations for a sample curriculum to be utilized by school districts; (7) create recommendations and guidelines for school personnel to respond appropriately to students affected by sexual abuse, including any recommendations for teacher professional development and training on this issue; (8) create recommendations and guidelines for age-appropriate, evidence-based child sexual abuse awareness, including guidelines for utilizing appropriately trained professionals to provide the student instruction and teacher training on this issue; (9) create recommendations and guidelines for providing educational material to parents and guardians on the warning signs of child sexual abuse and information on assistance and referrals or resources; and (10) develop a child sexual abuse protocol to be utilized by all community partners in order to help identify, prevent, and investigate child sexual abuse. b. The recommendations described in subsection a. of this section may include proposals for specific statutory changes and methods to foster cooperation among State agencies and between the State and local government. The recommendations also may identify opportunities for collaboration among State and local agencies, community-based organizations, and other public and private organizations to provide prevention education services. c. The task force shall present any recommendations and guidelines concerning school policies, updates to the New Jersey Student Learning Standards, and school personnel, as developed pursuant to paragraphs (5), (6), and (7) of subsection a. of this section, to the State Board of Education for consideration and possible adoption. L.2019, c.107, s.4.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-25.11 Report to Governor, Legislature.
5. The task force shall issue a report of its recommendations to the Governor, and to the Legislature pursuant to section 2 of P.L.1991, c.164 (C.52:14-19.1), no later than 18 months after the organization of the task force. The task force shall issue reports of any new or updated recommendations on at least a biennial basis. L.2019, c.107, s.5.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-25.12 Creation of educational materials.
6. The Department of Education shall create educational materials for parents and guardians based upon the recommendations developed by the task force pursuant to paragraph (9) of subsection a. of section 4 of this act. The department shall provide the educational materials to local Parent Teacher Associations throughout the State for presentation to their members. L.2019, c.107, s.6.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-26 Compliance with act
The Department of Education, pursuant to its authority under P.L. 1975, c. 212 (C. 18A:7A-1 et seq.), shall ensure compliance with this act. L.1984, c. 228, s. 3, eff. Dec. 28, 1984.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-27 Voting information.
1. The board of education of each school district and the appropriate school officials in each nonpublic school shall provide a voter registration form, a summary of voter registration eligibility requirements, and material describing the role of a citizen and the importance of voting to each eligible high school pupil prior to the graduation date for the school year. This material shall be nonpartisan and conform to the provisions of N.J.S.18A:42-4. L.1985, c.41, s.1; amended 2009, c.281.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-28 Rules, regulations
The Commissioner of Education shall adopt pursuant to the "Administrative Procedure Act," P.L. 1968, c. 410 (C. 52:14B-1 et seq.) rules and regulations necessary to implement the provisions of this act. L. 1985, c. 41, s. 2, eff. Feb. 7, 1985.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-29 Fingerprinting of students
The sheriff of each county shall work in conjunction with local law enforcement officials and local boards of education to provide a fingerprint program for the protection of its students. The sheriff shall visit each public school and shall, at the request of a parent or guardian or temporary caretaker, provide each student in any grades from kindergarten through nine with the opportunity to have the student's fingerprints taken as provided in this act. L. 1985, c. 100, s. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-30 Assistance of school officials; authorization
a. Public school officials shall cooperate with sheriffs and local law enforcement officials in setting dates for fingerprinting pupils pursuant to this act and providing school facilities and personnel to assist in the fingerprinting process. b. No pupil shall be fingerprinted unless the signed authorization section of the fingerprint card is completed by the student's parent or guardian or temporary caretaker. c. School officials shall notify the parents or guardians or temporary caretakers of eligible pupils of the date set for the fingerprinting program at the school at least two weeks prior thereto. For purposes of this subsection, "eligible pupils" means pupils who have not been fingerprinted previously pursuant to this act. L. 1985, c. 100, s. 2, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-31 Fingerprint card
a. Fingerprinting pursuant to this act shall be done on a fingerprint card provided by the sheriff or local law enforcement officials. Fingerprints shall be recorded on an eight by eight inch seven mil paper card stock, with the grain running from left to right. In addition to fingerprints, the card shall contain the following information: name, address, race, sex, date of birth, birthplace, height, weight, color of hair, color of eyes, complexion, scars and the name of the parent or guardian of the pupiL. The fingerprint card shall contain a place for rolled and plain impressions as presently utilized on standard fingerprint cards. Sufficient space shall be provided on the back of the card for palm prints, should they be necessary. The card shall also provide for the voluntary written consent of the student's parent or guardian or temporary caretaker and for the signature of the person taking the fingerprints, his department and the date the fingerprints were taken. The sheriff's office and local law enforcement officials shall not retain any fingerprint cards for their own records and shall not imprint or duplicate the fingerprints of a pupil except as provided in this act. b. Completed fingerprint cards shall be given to the pupil's parent or guardian or temporary caretaker. c. Each school district shall provide an orientation program conducted by certified school staff for the students for whom fingerprinting has been requested to ensure that the students can more readily understand its purposes. d. Any fingerprint that becomes smudged in the process of imprinting or is otherwise indistinct shall immediately be destroyed and a new fingerprint shall be imprinted. L. 1985, c. 100, s. 3, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-32 Fine for permitting cigarette machines on school property
Any person who, acting as an agent or otherwise, permits the operation, installation, or maintenance of coin-operated vending machines that dispense cigarettes on any property used for school purposes which is owned by any school board shall be punished by a fine of $250. L.1989, c.225, s.6.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-33 Pupils serving as district board of election members, excused absence
1. Notwithstanding any law, rule or regulation to the contrary, any pupil of any public school who serves as a member of a district board of election on the day of any election, pursuant to R.S.19:6-1 et seq., and attends required instructional sessions related to such membership, pursuant to R.S.19:50-1 et seq., shall have his or her absence for those reasons recorded as excused absences on that pupil's attendance record or on that of any group or class of which the pupil is a member upon the presentation of such documentation as the superintendent or administrative principal, as the case may be, deems necessary to prove the pupil served as a member of a district board on the day of an election or attended required instructional sessions. L.2001,c.271.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-33.1 Civic event, defined.
1. As used in this act, "civic event" means an event sponsored by a government entity, a community-based organization, or a nonprofit organization that incorporates elements of service learning whereby students learn and develop through organized service. A civic event shall address an issue of public concern such as community health and safety or environmental, economic, or community well-being. L.2023, c.274, s.1.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-33.2 Public school students attending civic events, one State-excused absence each school year.
2. a. Notwithstanding any law, rule, or regulation to the contrary, a pupil of a public school in grades six through 12 who is absent from school to attend a civic event shall have one State-excused absence each school year for that purpose recorded as an excused absence on the pupil's attendance record or on that of any group or class of which the pupil is a member, provided that a written notice signed by a parent or guardian of the pupil is presented to the proper school authority pursuant to subsection b. of this section. A board of education may permit additional excused absences for such purposes. Any transcript, application, employment form, or any similar form on which information concerning a pupil's attendance record is requested shall show, with respect to absences, only absences other than excused absences authorized pursuant to this subsection. b. The parent or guardian of a pupil shall provide a signed written notice of an intended excused absence to attend a civic event at least five school days in advance of the intended excused absence and such other documentation as the superintendent or administrative principal of the school district deems necessary to prove that the pupil meets the requirements for an excused absence pursuant to subsection a. of this section. L.2023, c.274, s.2.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-33.3 Commissioner of Education, guidance, excused absences for civic events.
3. a. The Commissioner of Education, with the approval of the State Board of Education, shall provide guidance to school districts relative to excused absences for civic events. b. The State Board of Education shall promulgate rules and regulations pursuant to the "Administrative Procedure Act," P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.) necessary to effectuate the provisions of this act. L.2023, c.274, s.3.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-34 School surveys, certain, parental consent required before administration
1. a. Unless a school district receives prior written informed consent from a student's parent or legal guardian and provides for a copy of the document to be available for viewing at convenient locations and time periods, the school district shall not administer to a student any academic or nonacademic survey, assessment, analysis or evaluation which reveals information concerning: (1) political affiliations; (2) mental and psychological problems potentially embarrassing to the student or the student's family; (3) sexual behavior and attitudes; (4) illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating and demeaning behavior; (5) critical appraisals of other individuals with whom a respondent has a close family relationship; (6) legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships, such as those of lawyers, physicians, and ministers; (7) income, other than that required by law to determine eligibility for participation in a program or for receiving financial assistance under a program; or (8) social security number. b. The school district shall request prior written informed consent at least two weeks prior to the administration of the survey, assessment, analysis or evaluation. c. A student shall not participate in any survey, assessment, analysis or evaluation that concerns the issues listed in subsection a. of this section unless the school district has obtained prior written informed consent from that student's parent or guardian. d. A school district that violates the provisions of this act shall be subject to such monetary penalties as determined by the commissioner. L.2001,c.364.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-34.1 Voluntary survey for students with prior parental, guardian written notification.
1. a. Notwithstanding section 1 of P.L.2001, c.364 (C.18A:36-34), or any other law, rule, or regulation to the contrary, a school district that sends prior written notification to a parent or legal guardian of a student may administer an anonymous, voluntary survey, assessment, analysis or evaluation to the student which reveals information concerning any of the following issues: (1) use of alcohol, tobacco, drugs, and vaping; (2) sexual behavior and attitudes; (3) behaviors that may contribute to intentional or unintentional injuries or violence; or (4) physical activity and nutrition-related behaviors. b. Written notification provided by a school district to the parent or legal guardian of a student shall be delivered to the parent or legal guardian by regular mail, electronic mail, or a written acknowledgement form to be delivered by the student at least two weeks prior to administration of the survey, assessment, analysis or evaluation. Written notification shall contain, at minimum, the following information: (1) a description of the survey, assessment, analysis, or evaluation; (2) the purpose for which the survey, assessment, analysis, or evaluation is needed; (3) the entities and persons that will have access to the information generated by the survey, assessment, analysis, or evaluation; (4) specific instruction as to when and where the survey, assessment, analysis, or evaluation will be available for parental or legal guardian review prior to its administration; (5) the method by which the parent or legal guardian can deny permission to administer the survey, assessment, analysis, or evaluation to the student; a form specifically providing for such denial shall be included with this notice; (6) the names and contact information of persons to whom questions can be directed; and (7) a statement advising that failure to respond indicates approval of participation in the survey, assessment, analysis, or evaluation. c. Information obtained through a survey, assessment, analysis or evaluation administered to a student in accordance with this section shall be submitted to the Department of Education and the Department of Health. Information may be used to develop public health initiatives and prevention programs. Information shall not be used for marketing or other commercial purposes that are not related to student health. d. A school district that violates the provisions of this section shall be subject to such monetary penalties as determined by the commissioner. L.2021, c.156.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-35 Disclosure of certain student information on Internet prohibited without parental consent.
1. The board of education of each school district and the board of trustees of each charter school that establishes an Internet web site, shall not disclose on that web site any personally identifiable information about a student without receiving prior written consent from the student's parent or guardian on a form developed by the Department of Education. The written consent form shall contain a statement concerning the potential dangers of personally identifiable information about individual students on the Internet. As used in this act, "personally identifiable information" means student names, student photos, student addresses, student e-mail addresses, student phone numbers, and locations and times of class trips. L.2001,c.402,s.1.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-35.1 School website compliance, Web Content Accessibility Guidelines; statement of assurance.
1. a. No school district, charter school, renaissance school, or the Marie H. Katzenbach School for the Deaf shall make available to the enrolled students of the district or school or to the public an Internet website or web service unless the Internet website or web service complies with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA or the most up-to-date version of the guidelines if the guidelines are approved by the Commissioner of Education, or any other applicable guidelines or requirements as may be designated or approved by the Commissioner of Education. b. The Commissioner of Education shall establish a procedure to obtain a statement of assurance that shall be submitted by the school district, charter school, renaissance school, or the Marie H. Katzenbach School for the Deaf concerning the accessibility compliance status of the Internet website or web service of a school district, charter school, renaissance school, or the Marie H. Katzenbach School for the Deaf. The Department of Education shall be responsible for collecting the statements of assurance, which shall attest that an Internet website or web service complies with the requirements of this section and shall post such information on the Department of Education's Internet website which shall be updated every two years. c. (1) If a school district, charter school, renaissance school, or the Marie H. Katzenbach School for the Deaf establishes an Internet website or web service after the effective date of this act, the public school shall submit the statement of assurance to the department. An Internet website or web service established by a school district, charter school, renaissance school, or the Marie H. Katzenbach School for the Deaf before or after the effective date of this act shall be permitted to operate while pending receipt of the statement of assurance by the department. (2) Every two years following the effective date of this act, a school district, charter school, renaissance school, or the Marie H. Katzenbach School for the Deaf shall submit the statement of assurance attesting to the compliance of each Internet website or web service operated by the school district, charter school, renaissance school, or the Marie H. Katzenbach School for the Deaf with the requirements of this section. d. Nothing in this section shall be construed to bar, exclude, or otherwise affect any right or action that exists under the "Law Against Discrimination," P.L.1945, c.169 (C.10:5-1 et seq.). e. As used in this section, "Internet website or web service" includes any webpage, website, web service, online curriculum, or online third party or open educational resource product that is made available to enrolled students or the public by a school district, charter school, renaissance school, or the Marie H. Katzenbach School for the Deaf through the Internet. L.2021, c.461.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-36 Pupil information, certain, classroom materials; rules.
1. a. A pupil in a public school shall not be required to supply information regarding the pupil's race, ethnicity, migrant status or economically disadvantaged status on any materials distributed in class. b. Materials distributed to a pupil in a public school shall not include any obvious indicators of the pupil's race, ethnicity, migrant status or economically disadvantaged status; except that the school district may use identification numbers or other methods of identification after the collection of the materials c. The State Board of Education shall promulgate rules pursuant to the "Administrative Procedure Act," P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.), to effectuate the provisions of this act. L.2002,c.92,s.1.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-37 "Student-athlete" defined, rules for maintenance of amateur status; violations, penalties.
1. a. As used in this section, "student-athlete" means any student enrolled in a public or nonpublic secondary school in this State who is a participant in an interscholastic athletic program governed by the rules of the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association. b. No person shall give, offer, promise or attempt to give to any student-athlete, whether directly or indirectly, any gift, favor, service, employment or other thing of value which the person knows or has reason to know would, if accepted, subject that student-athlete to being ruled ineligible to participate as an amateur-athlete under the rules established by the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association. A person who violates the provisions of this subsection shall be subject to a civil penalty of not less than $1,000 and not more than $10,000, for each violation, which shall be collected in a summary manner pursuant to the "Penalty Enforcement Law of 1999," P.L.1999, c.274 (C.2A:58-10 et seq.), in the Superior Court or any municipal court. c. The board of education of each school district or the chief school administrator of each nonpublic school shall annually notify each student-athlete under the jurisdiction of the school district or nonpublic school of the provisions of this section and of the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association's rules regarding eligibility. d. The notice required by subsection c. of this section shall be: (1) written; (2) in language understandable by a secondary school student; (3) based on model language developed by the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association; and (4) communicated via regular or electronic mail, sent home with the student or published in a student handbook. L.2005,c.364.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-38 Classroom placement of twins, higher multiples, selection by parent, guardian.
1. a. (1) A parent or guardian of twins or higher order multiples enrolled in the same K through 8grade level at the same public school may request that the children be placed in the same classroom or in separate classrooms. The school principal may recommend a classroom placement to the parent or guardian and may provide the parent or guardian with professional education advice that will assist the parent or guardian in making the best decision for the children's education. The parent or guardian shall request the classroom placement in writing no later than 14 days after the first day of each school year. The school principal shall provide the classroom placement requested by the parent or guardian and the students shall remain in this initial placement for the duration of the school year unless the board of education makes a different classroom placement determination pursuant to the provisions of subsection b. of this section. In the event that the twins or higher order multiples enroll in the school after the school year commences, the parent or guardian shall request the classroom placement in writing no later than 14 days after the first day of attendance. The school principal shall provide the classroom placement requested by the parent or guardian if space is available in accordance with written local district class size requirements and the students shall remain in this initial placement for the duration of the school year unless the board of education makes a different classroom placement determination pursuant to the provisions of subsection b. of this section. (2) A parent or guardian of twins or higher order multiples enrolled in the same 9 through 12 grade level at the same public school may request that the children be placed in the same classroom or in separate classrooms. The placement decision shall be made at the discretion of the school principal in the best interests of the school and its students. The parent or guardian may appeal the school principal's decision to the board of education, which shall make a final determination on the placement. b. A school principal may, after consultation with the students' parent or guardian and teachers at the end of the initial grading period, request that the board of education make a different classroom placement determination for the twins or higher order multiples if the initial classroom placement is determined to be disruptive to any of the students in the class or classes in which the students are enrolled or if the principal concludes that the initial placement does not sufficiently support the students' academic or social development. Upon receiving the request, the board of education shall make a final classroom placement determination. c. As used in this section, "higher order multiples" means triplets, quadruplets, quintuplets, or larger group of siblings born at one birth. d. The provisions of this section shall not apply to a school district which maintains only a single classroom for the grade level in which the twins or higher order multiples are enrolled. e. The parent or guardian shall be responsible for any additional pupil transportation costs that are incurred by the school district as a result of providing the requested classroom placement, unless the school district is in agreement with the placement. f. In the event that one of the twins or higher order multiples receives special education services, the requested classroom placement shall not be accommodated if the placement is inconsistent with a student's Individualized Education Plan. L.2008, c.70, s.1.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-39 Notification by school to certain persons using certain electronic devices; fine.
1. A school district or charter school that furnishes a student with a laptop computer, cellular telephone, or other electronic device shall provide the student with written or electronic notification that the electronic device may record or collect information on the student's activity or the student's use of the device if the electronic device is equipped with a camera, global positioning system, or other feature capable of recording or collecting information on the student's activity or use of the device. The notification shall also include a statement that the school district or charter school shall not use any of the capabilities in a manner that would violate the privacy rights of the student or any individual residing with the student. The parent or guardian of the student shall acknowledge receipt of the notification. The school district or charter school shall retain the acknowledgement as long as the student retains the use of the electronic device. A school district or charter school failing to provide the notification required by this section shall be subject to a fine of $250 per student, per incident. The fine shall be remitted to the Department of Education, and shall be deposited in a fund that shall be used to provide laptop or other portable computer equipment to at-risk pupils, as defined in section 3 of P.L.2007, c.260 (C.18A:7F-45). L.2013, c.44, s.1.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-40 Written policy concerning electronic communications between school employees and students.
1. a. As used in this section, "electronic communication" means a communication transmitted by means of an electronic device including, but not limited to, a telephone, cellular phone, computer, computer network, personal data assistant, or pager. Electronic communications include, but are not limited to, e-mails, text messages, instant messages, and communications made by means of an Internet website, including social media and social networking websites. b. Each school district shall, within 120 days of the effective date of this act, adopt a written policy concerning electronic communications between school employees and students enrolled in the district. The policy shall include, at a minimum, provisions designed to prevent improper communications between school employees and students made via e-mail, cellular phones, social networking websites, and other Internet-based social media. L.2014, c.2, s.1.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-40a Definitions.
1. As used in this act: “Board of education” means a board of education as defined in N.J.S.18A:18A-2, a board of trustees of a charter school, and a board of trustees of a renaissance school project. “Internet-enabled device” means a smartphone, tablet, smartwatch, or other device capable of connecting to the internet and enabling the user to access content on the internet, including social media applications. An internet-enabled device shall not include a non-internet-enabled device or an internet-enabled device provided by a public school when used for educational purposes. “Non-internet-enabled device” means a cell phone or other communication device that is not capable of connecting to the internet or enabling the user to access content on the internet. “Public school” means and includes a school, under college grade, which is operated by the governing body of a school district, charter school, or renaissance school project. L.2025, c.195, s.1.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-40b Student use of internet-enabled devices during school-related hours, events, Commissioner of Education, guidelines.
2. a. To assist boards of education in developing policies concerning student use of internet-enabled devices during regular school hours, on a school bus, or during school-sanctioned events when the student is under the direct supervision of a teaching staff member or employee of the board of education, the Commissioner of Education shall develop guidelines applicable to students enrolled in grades kindergarten through 12. The guidelines shall be issued no later than 90 days after the effective date of this act. b. The guidelines shall, at a minimum: (1) provide age appropriate and grade-level differentiated guidelines concerning limiting and prohibiting student use of internet-enabled devices; (2) prohibit non-academic use of an internet-enabled device on school grounds during the school day; (3) be consistent with State and federal law, including accommodations provided in a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) established pursuant to the “Individuals with Disabilities Education Act,” 20 U.S.C. s.1400 et seq., educational plan established pursuant to section 504 of the “Rehabilitation Act of 1973,” 29 U.S.C. s.794 , or student health plan established to monitor or address a student’s health condition; (4) address permitting student use of cell phones in the case of an emergency or in response to a perceived threat of danger; (5) authorize student use of an internet-enabled device on school grounds during the school day, or during school-sanctioned events: (a) if authorized by a principal, chief school administrator, or their designee, for a necessary specified purpose, which shall be authorized only when no reasonable alternative exists to achieve the same objective while maintaining compliance with the guidelines issued by the Commissioner of Education; (b) if necessary for the provision and administration of a student’s prescribed care consistent with the submission by a parent or guardian of documentation from a health care professional; (c) for translation services; (d) on a case-by-case basis for a student caregiver who is routinely responsible for the care or well-being of a family member, upon approval from a principal, chief school administrator, or their designees, which may include a school psychologist, school social worker, or school counselor; and (e) when required by law; (6) address internet-enabled devices and cell phones with only text or voice; (7) list options that may be utilized by a board of education for storage of an internet-enabled device, including locked pouches and lockers; (8) provide guidance for a board of education to establish network-based restrictions to prevent the use of, or access to, social media platforms; and (9) detail protocols for communicating the board of education’s policy concerning student use of internet-enabled devices to students, their families, and teaching staff members. c. The guidelines shall promote student learning and well-being. In developing the guidelines, the commissioner shall consult with interested stakeholders in the education community including, but not limited to, the New Jersey Education Association, the American Federation of Teachers, the New Jersey School Boards Association, the New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association, and the New Jersey Association of School Administrators, to ensure that the guidelines are responsive to the needs of students, parents, and teaching staff members. d. A board of education shall adopt a policy concerning student use of internet-enabled devices during regular school hours, on a school bus, or during school-sanctioned events when the student is under the direct supervision of a teaching staff member or employee of the board of education. The policy shall address the use of internet-enabled devices in the event of an emergency situation or in response to a perceived threat of danger. The policy shall be consistent with the guidelines developed pursuant to subsection a. of this section. e. Nothing in this section shall be construed to prevent a board of education from adopting a policy on the use of internet-enabled devices by students enrolled in the public school that is more stringent than the guidelines developed by the commissioner pursuant to subsection a. of this section. f. The guidelines developed by the commissioner pursuant to subsection a. of this section shall not prohibit a principal, chief school administrator, or designee from making a reasonable accommodation for the use of internet-enabled devices for educational purposes. L.2025, c.195, s.2.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-41 Development, distribution of guidelines concerning transgender students.
1. a. The Commissioner of Education shall develop and distribute to school districts guidelines concerning transgender students. The purposes of the guidelines shall be to provide direction for schools in addressing common issues concerning the needs of transgender students, and to assist schools in establishing policies and procedures that ensure a supportive and nondiscriminatory environment for transgender students. b. The guidelines developed by the commissioner shall include, but not be limited to, information and guidance regarding the following: (1) definitions of terms relevant to an understanding of transgender issues, including gender identity, gender expression, and transgender person; (2) maintaining a safe and supportive learning environment that is free from discrimination and harassment for transgender students, including students going through a gender transition; (3) confidentiality and privacy concerns, including ensuring that school personnel do not disclose information that may reveal a student's transgender status except as allowed by law, and advising schools to work with the student to create an appropriate confidentiality plan regarding the student's transgender or transitioning status; (4) procedures for school records, including maintaining a separate official record for each student that contains the student's legal name and biological gender and changing a student's official record upon receipt of documentation of a legal change in name or gender; (5) ensuring that a transgender student is addressed at school by the name and pronoun preferred by the student that corresponds to the student's gender identity, regardless of whether a legal name change or change in official school records has occurred; (6) issuing school documentation such as student identification cards in the name preferred by the student that corresponds to the student's gender identity, and permitting a transgender student to dress in accordance with the student's gender identity; (7) providing a transgender student with the same opportunities to participate in physical education as other students, and permitting the student to participate in physical education in accordance with the student's gender identity; (8) permitting a transgender student to participate in gender-segregated school activities in accordance with the student's gender identity; (9) use of restrooms and locker rooms, including not requiring a transgender student to use a restroom or locker room that conflicts with the student's gender identity, and providing reasonable alternative arrangements if needed to ensure a student's safety and comfort; (10) ensuring that school counselors are knowledgeable regarding issues and concerns relevant to transgender students; and (11) permitting and supporting the formation of student clubs or programs regarding issues related to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth. c. The guidelines shall include information on organizations or other resources available to students and parents that provide support to transgender individuals. d. The commissioner shall periodically review the guidelines developed pursuant to this section, and shall update or modify the guidelines, as appropriate, in accordance with current State or federal laws and regulations concerning the rights of transgender students. L.2017, c.137, s.1.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-42 Guidance, resources provided.
2. The Commissioner of Education shall provide school districts with guidance and resources regarding the following: a. providing professional development opportunities to teachers, administrators, guidance counselors, bus drivers, coaches, and other school staff regarding issues and concerns relevant to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) students; and b. making developmentally appropriate information about LGBTQ issues available in school facilities, which may include providing pamphlets or books in school libraries, counseling offices, and nurse's offices. L.2017, c.137, s.2.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-43 Policy requiring students to carry school identification card under certain circumstances permitted.
1. a. Each school district may develop and implement a policy requiring all students to carry a school identification card issued by the district while the student is at any school-sponsored, off-campus activity including, but not limited to, field trips or interscholastic sports programs. The provisions of this subsection shall not be construed to require a student to carry the school identification card while participating in an athletic contest or competition, an activity involving fine arts or performing arts, or any other extracurricular activity that the Commissioner of Education determines does not require the physical possession of a school identification card. b. The Commissioner of Education shall develop guidelines concerning the information to be included on an identification card authorized pursuant to subsection a. of this section. The information shall include, but need not be limited to, the student's name, an up-to-date photograph, and the current school year. c. A school identification card issued in accordance with this section shall not be considered a government record pursuant to P.L.1963, c.73 (C.47:1A-1 et seq.), P.L.2001, c.404 (C.47:1A-5 et al.), or the common law concerning access to government records. L.2019, c.57, s.1.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-44 School student's right to freedom of speech and press.
1. a. Except as otherwise provided in section 2 of this act, a public school student shall have the right to exercise freedom of speech and of the press. b. By the first full school year next following the date of enactment of this act, each school district shall adopt a written policy concerning student freedom of expression in accordance with the provisions of section 2 of this act. The policy shall include reasonable provisions for the time, place, and manner of student expression. The policy may also include limitations on language that may be defined as profane, harassing, threatening, or intimidating. L. 2021, c.309, s.1.
N.J. Stat. § 18A:36-45 Definitions relative to student's right to freedom of speech and press.
2. a. As used in this section: "School-sponsored media" means any material that is prepared, substantially written, published, or broadcast by a student journalist at a public school, distributed or generally made available to members of the student body, and prepared under the direction of a student media adviser. School-sponsored media does not include media intended for distribution or transmission solely in the classroom in which the media is produced. "Student journalist" means a public school student who gathers, compiles, writes, edits, photographs, records, or prepares information for dissemination in school-sponsored media. "Student media adviser" means an individual employed, appointed, or designated by a school district to supervise or provide instruction relating to school-sponsored media. b. Except as otherwise provided in subsection c. of this section, a student journalist has the right to exercise freedom of speech and of the press in school-sponsored media, regardless of whether the media is supported financially by the school district or by use of school district facilities, or produced in conjunction with a class in which the student is enrolled. Subject to subsection c. of this section, a student journalist is responsible for determining the news, opinion, feature, and advertising content of school-sponsored media. This subsection shall not be construed to prevent a student media adviser from teaching professional standards of English and journalism to student journalists. c. This section does not authorize or protect expression by a student that: (1) is libelous or slanderous; (2) constitutes an unwarranted invasion of privacy; (3) is profane or obscene; (4) violates federal or State law; or (5) so incites students as to create a clear and present danger of the commission of an unlawful act, the violation of school district policies, or the material and substantial disruption of the orderly operation of the school. d. A school district shall not authorize any prior restraint of any school-sponsored media except for the types of expression described in subsection c. of this section. When a school official determines that the restraint of student expression is necessary, the school official shall simultaneously identify the provision within subsection c. of this section under which the limitation of student expression is appropriate. e. A school district shall not sanction a student operating as an independent journalist. f. An employee of a school district shall not be dismissed, suspended, disciplined, reassigned, transferred, or otherwise retaliated against solely for acting to protect a student engaged in the conduct authorized under this section, or refusing to infringe upon conduct that is protected by this section, the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, or paragraph 6 of Article I of the New Jersey Constitution. L. 2021, c.309, s.2.
Source: Open US Law by Vaquill AI (CC BY 4.0)URL: https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/legislative-activity/statutesFetched: 10/17/2026