This bill requires boards of education to directly employ certain educational professionals while allowing for the contracting of specific personnel under defined conditions. It emphasizes the necessity of having qualified staff directly employed by the board to ensure high-quality education. The bill specifies the types of personnel that may be contracted, including substitute teachers, instructors in financial literacy, and those providing individualized student learning opportunities. It also permits contracting for special education services, provided that the contracted personnel possess the required certifications.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for virtual or remote instruction, allowing it under certain circumstances where in-person instruction is not feasible, subject to the Commissioner of Education's approval. It establishes a process for school districts to apply for virtual instruction, ensuring stakeholder notification and opportunities for public comment. The bill mandates that individualized student learning opportunities can be fulfilled through virtual or remote instruction and that these opportunities will count towards the credit requirements for a State-endorsed diploma, thereby ensuring that students participating in remote learning meet graduation criteria.