Limits requirements for school districts to include instructions on diversity and inclusion as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards to grades 9 through 12.
Impact
If enacted, A2720 would modify the current educational standards under the New Jersey Student Learning Standards, specifically P.L. 2021, c.32. It reflects a shift towards providing targeted, age-appropriate education in diversity and inclusion, which the bill's supporters argue is essential for fostering understanding among older students. Schools would still be expected to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, but the bill narrows the scope to a particular age group, potentially altering the overall approach to these themes within earlier grades.
Summary
Assembly Bill A2720 seeks to amend existing New Jersey law regarding the incorporation of diversity and inclusion instruction within school curricula. Specifically, the bill limits the requirement for school districts to provide such instruction only for students in grades 9 through 12. Previously, the law mandated that diversity education be part of the curriculum for students from kindergarten through grade 12. The objective of this adjustment is to focus on age appropriateness, suggesting that the complexities of diversity concepts are more suited to high school students than to younger children.
Contention
The bill has sparked a range of responses among stakeholders in the education community. Proponents believe that focusing on higher grades allows for more nuanced discussions about diversity issues, which are critical for developing informed citizens. However, opponents argue that this change undermines foundational learning opportunities for younger students, who could benefit from early exposure to diversity concepts. Thus, the debate centers around whether the timing of such instruction can influence societal attitudes and the importance of fostering inclusion from an early age.
Carry Over
Limits requirements for school districts to include instructions on diversity and inclusion as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards to grades 9 through 12.
Requires instruction on voting in curriculum of students in grade 12 as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Social Studies.
Requires school districts to provide instruction on risks of compulsive gambling as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.
Requires school districts to include instruction on bullying awareness and prevention as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.
Requires school districts to provide instruction on bleed control as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.
Requires school districts to provide instruction on interacting with law enforcement as part of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Social Studies.
Requires school districts to provide instruction on water safety as part of New Jersey Student Learning Standards for Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.
Requires certain school districts to include fitness and nutrition wellness program as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.
School aid: penalties; exception to minimum days of pupil instruction requirement for district closure during a declared state of emergency; provide for. Amends sec. 101 of 1979 PA 94 (MCL 388.1701).
School aid: penalties; exception to minimum days of pupil instruction requirement for district closure during a declared state of emergency; provide for. Amends sec. 101 of 1979 PA 94 (MCL 388.1701).
School aid: penalties; exception to minimum days of pupil instruction requirement for certain closures; modify. Amends sec. 101 of 1979 PA 94 (MCL 388.1701).
School aid: penalties; exception to minimum days of pupil instruction requirement for inclement weather; revise. Amends sec. 101 of 1979 PA 94 (MCL 388.1701).
School aid: penalties; exception to minimum days of pupil instruction requirement for inclement weather; revise. Amends sec. 101 of 1979 PA 94 (MCL 388.1701).