On Wednesday, March 25, the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) published a broadcast memo sharing updated requirements for training school staff in the care of students with epilepsy and seizure disorders. These requirements were updated by P.L.2025, c.205 (A-2255/S-2376), which was signed by Gov. Murphy in January.
Recent amendments to State statute at N.J.S.A. 18A:40-12.35 (resulting from the passage of P.L.2025, c.205) now require boards of education to ensure that all staff are trained in the care of students with epilepsy and seizure disorders at least once every five years. Previously, the law was silent on how often staff should receive training.
Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:40-12.35, each board of education shall coordinate the provision of epilepsy and seizure disorder care in the school setting and shall ensure all staff are trained in the care of students with epilepsy and seizure disorders, including staff working with school-sponsored programs outside of the regular school day. The training required shall include a New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH)-approved online or in-person course of instruction provided by a nonprofit national organization that supports the welfare of individuals with epilepsy and seizure disorders.
School district staff must now complete one of the following NJDOH-approved training courses every five years:
- Seizure Training for School Personnel offered by the Epilepsy Foundation; or
- T.R.U.S.T. Seizure Recognition and First Aid offered by the Epilepsy Services of New Jersey.
For questions, please email healthysch@doe.nj.gov.
