This bill mandates the New Jersey Department of Education (DOE) to create and maintain a central, searchable registry for individuals and organizations wishing to provide free tutoring services to students across the state. The registry will include essential information such as the registrant's name, contact details, subject matter expertise, and availability for tutoring. The DOE is required to make this registry publicly accessible on its website. Eligible applicants for inclusion in the registry include certified teachers, retired teachers in good standing, college students, industry professionals, and other individuals or organizations deemed appropriate by the department. Importantly, registrants are prohibited from charging for their services.
Additionally, the bill stipulates that individuals applying for the registry must undergo a criminal history record check, with an exception for certain certified teachers who have already completed this requirement. Organizations must provide a statement confirming that their representatives have also undergone the necessary background checks, with penalties for false information. The DOE may reimburse individuals for the cost of these checks. Furthermore, the bill includes a disclaimer indicating that the information in the registry has not been independently verified and does not constitute an endorsement of the tutoring services offered.