New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill SJR59

Introduced
2/14/22  
Refer
2/14/22  

Caption

Designates the second Friday in December of each year as "PSRPs in Our Schools Day" in New Jersey to recognize contributions of paraprofessionals and school-related personnel (PSRPs).

Impact

The designation of a specific day to recognize PSRPs impacts state laws by formally acknowledging their contributions in a public way. This resolution encourages schools and communities across New Jersey to celebrate and appreciate the challenges and responsibilities these personnel undertake. By instituting PSRPs in Our Schools Day, the legislation reinforces the importance of these roles in the educational framework and promotes greater awareness and appreciation of their work among students, parents, and the wider community.

Summary

SJR59 is a joint resolution in New Jersey that designates the second Friday in December each year as 'PSRPs in Our Schools Day.' This resolution aims to recognize and honor the vital contributions of paraprofessionals and school-related personnel (PSRPs) within the educational system. The resolution highlights the roles of various PSRPs, including instructional aides, bus drivers, and cafeteria staff, among others, who provide essential services that support the functionality of schools and enhance the educational experience for students.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SJR59 is positive, reflecting a widespread agreement on the necessity of recognizing and celebrating the work of PSRPs. The recognition serves as a morale booster for these individuals and fosters a sense of community within the educational environment. Stakeholders, including educators and administrators, are likely to view this resolution as a meaningful acknowledgment of efforts that may often go unnoticed.

Contention

While there is a general consensus on the importance of PSRPs, notable points of contention could arise regarding the extent of the observance or the ways in which the contributions of PSRPs might be further supported beyond just a recognition day. Some advocates might argue for more substantial legislative support in terms of funding, training, and professional development opportunities for PSRPs to enhance their effectiveness and recognition in the educational system.

Companion Bills

NJ AJR146

Same As Designates the second Friday of December of each year as "Paraprofessional and School-Related Personnel (PSRPs) in Our Schools Day" in New Jersey to recognize the contributions of paraprofessionals and school-related personnel.

Previously Filed As

NJ AJR20

Designates May of each year as "Home-Schooling Month" in New Jersey.

NJ AJR81

Designates December 12 of each year as "Frank Sinatra Day" in New Jersey.

NJ AJR183

Permanently designates the first Friday in February as "Give Kids a Smile Day" in New Jersey.

NJ SJR102

Designates May 17 of each year as "Menstrual Empowerment Day" in New Jersey.

NJ SJR24

Designates second week of September of each year as "Library Awareness Week in New Jersey."

NJ AJR45

Designates March 31 of each year as "Jack Antonoff Day" in New Jersey.

NJ AJR37

Designates second weekend in April of each year as "Vaisakhi Weekend" in New Jersey.

NJ AJR180

Designates first Friday of May of each year as "NJ's Unplug Day."

NJ AJR34

Designates April 9th of each year as Dr. James Still Day in New Jersey.

NJ SJR16

Recognizes International 22q11.2 Foundation, and designates November 22 of each year as "22q Awareness Day" in New Jersey.

Similar Bills

MN HF3067

Paraprofessional qualifications clarified.

WV HB4133

Defining a work day for school service personnel and removing a provision relating to employment of licensed practical nurses

WV HB3176

Defining a work day for school service personnel and removing a provision relating to employment of licensed practical nurses

US SB2451

Pay Paraprofessionals and Support Staff Act

US HB7032

Pay Paraprofessionals and Support Staff Act

MN SF3368

Paraprofessional qualifications definition

MN HF4729

School employee health insurance provided, minimum starting salary for nonlicensed school personnel increased, paraprofessional paid orientation and professional development provided, and money appropriated.

MN SF5296

School employee health insurance provision, minimum starting salary for nonlicensed school personnel extension provision, paid orientation, professional development for paraprofessional; appropriation