School Board Notes
New Jersey's weekly education report offers up-to-date information on legislation, court decisions and other developments affecting school districts.
January 3, 2024 • VOL. XLVII NO. 21
Articles
Legislative Update: Electric School Bus Program Funding and Food Composting Bills Signed; Legislature Sends Several Other Bills to Governor
On Dec. 21, 2023, the Senate and Assembly met and granted final legislative approval to several education measures, sending them to Gov. Phil Murphy’s desk for further action. The governor also signed two previously conditionally vetoed bills into law.
School Ethics Commission Adopts and Makes Public a New Advisory Opinion
This article is limited to a review of those matters in which the SEC found a violation of the School Ethics Act, and a review of the new public advisory opinion.
Insights from the NJSBA on Mandated Training Requirements
As of March 6, 2023, all new board members must complete mandated training within 90 days of taking office. This requirement, initiated by the School Ethics Commission, is aimed at ensuring that all board members have up-to-date knowledge and understanding of their roles and responsibilities.
Mandated Training Opportunities for Newly Elected School Board Members
As the state-designated provider of mandated training, the NJSBA offers its members numerous formats to fulfill their training requirements, including in-person, live virtual, and self-paced online training courses.
Governor Proclaims January 2024 ‘School Board Recognition Month’
Citing the meaningful contributions that local board of education members and charter school and renaissance school project board of trustee members make to public education and to the quality of life in New Jersey, Gov. Phil Murphy has proclaimed January 2023 as School Board Recognition Month in New Jersey.
School Leader Features Tips on Battling Chronic Absenteeism and More
The winter 2024 issue of School Leader, which features a cover story on how to battle chronic absenteeism, is now available online.
Tammeisha Smith Named Vice Chair of the Board of Directors for the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey
Tammeisha Smith, an active NJSBA member who has served the Association in various leadership roles, has been named vice chair of the board of directors for the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey.
NJDOE Provides Details on its Portfolio Appeals Process for 2023-2024
The advisory includes deadlines for the portfolio appeals process as well as details on the electronic submission process. It also includes details on resources available via NJDOE Homeroom to support LEAs in successfully completing and submitting the required documents.
Letter Outlines Changes to FAFSA Process, Offers Guidance
David J. Socolow, executive director of the New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority, recently sent a letter to educational agency leads and nonpublic school administrators, informing them about the Free Application for Federal Student Aid process.
USDOE Approves New Jersey’s Every Student Succeeds Act State Plan
The NJDOE is reviewing and revising the entirety of the ESSA state plan. The NJDOE is inviting diverse groups of stakeholders to discuss ways the NJDOE may continually improve schools that require targeted support and resources.
Florence “Peggy” Saslow, Former NJSBA Board Member of the Year, Dies at Age 100
Florence Saslow, known to many as “Peggy,” died Dec. 26, 2023, at age 100. She was surrounded by her loving family at the time of her death.