August 29, 2020–New items posted on NJSBA’s School Restart Resource Center include the New Jersey Department of Education’s Guidance on Complying with the Executive Order 175, along with a new “Statement of Assurance,” which replaces the previously required “Attestation,” a document that NJSBA told the state raised serious concerns.

Guidance on Executive Order No. 175 – The NJ Department of Education on August 29 released further guidance on complying with Executive Order 175, which allows school districts to begin the academic year on an all-virtual basis if health standards cannot be met. The document contains links to forms required for the submission of school district reopening plans. It also addresses the length of the school year and school day, as well as the National School Lunch and Breakfast Program. Posted August 29.

Statement of AssuranceThe Department of Education posted a new “Statement of Assurance,” to be completed by district superintendents as part of the school reopening plan process. The Statement of Assurance replaces the “Attestation,” a previously required document about which the New Jersey School Boards Association and the New Jersey Association of School Administrators raised serious issues. Posted August 29.

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The New Jersey School Boards Association is a federation of the state’s local boards of education and includes the majority of New Jersey’s charter schools as associate members. NJSBA provides training, advocacy and support to advance public education and promote the achievement of all students through effective governance.