
School Board Notes
New Jersey's weekly education report offers up-to-date information on legislation, court decisions and other developments affecting school districts.
July 21, 2020 • Vol. XLIV No. 3

Articles
All-Virtual Instructional Option to Be Available for Fall, Says Murphy
The New Jersey Department of Education will issue further guidance this week, according to the governor.
Legislative Update: COVID-19 Emergency Bond Act Signed
The law authorizes the state to borrow up to $9.9 billion to address the state's fiscal crisis.
Bill Package Would Boost Mental Health Services in Schools
The bills aim to ensure that students are receiving the interventions and supports they need.
Electronic School Board Candidate Nominating Petitions Available: Filing Deadline Approaching
The New Jersey Division of Elections has posted single signature electronic candidate petitions for school board candidates on its website.
Court Rules Against PA Board of Education in Decision on Off-Campus Student Speech
The decision, which affects New Jersey, explains the limits of board authority.
Arts Ed NJ Releases Update to Report: Guidance on Vocal Programs and Playing Wind Instruments
The update provides details on research done on respiratory aerosols that are released in playing wind and brass instruments, singing and other activities.
Deadline for NJSBA’s Virtual Workshop 2020 Program Proposals Extended to Aug. 17
Sessions will be held on our online conference platform, allowing presenters to upload materials, and chat with session attendees.
Equity Council Corner: Looking at Equity in Distance Learning
The Education Trust, a national nonprofit that works to close opportunity gaps, has identified 10 questions for equity advocates to ask about distance learning.
Cory Booker Meets (Virtually) with NJSBA
New Jersey's U.S. Senator discussed topics including federal funding and potential reopening plans for public K-12 schools.
Call for Nominations: Board Member of the Year Award
Members are encouraged to nominate a board member who has been an outstanding trustee of public education.
Education Matters Video: Social-Emotional Learning Before and During the Pandemic
The Wingman social-emotional learning program was introduced in Bloomfield before the pandemic; the district has continued to use it during the past several months.
Pandemic Discussion Summer Series: Key Decisions for Special Education During COVID-19
The four-part series will cover some of the pressing questions related to reopening schools and serving students with disabilities.
NJSBA Debuts 'Road Back' Training and Information Series
This week's virtual training programs include some from the “Road Back” Training and Information Series, providing resources in connection with the state’s school reopening plan.