This bill mandates that school districts in New Jersey allow students in grades six through 12 who receive equivalent instruction outside of public schools, as well as those attending charter schools, county vocational schools, or nonpublic schools, to participate in interscholastic athletics in their district of residence. The participation is contingent upon meeting the same eligibility requirements established by the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) that apply to students enrolled in the district. Students must provide proof of residency, meet sports participation requirements (such as physical examinations and academic standards), and demonstrate that they are receiving an academically equivalent education if they are home-schooled. The bill also stipulates that any disputes regarding eligibility will be resolved by the NJSIAA.
Additionally, the bill includes provisions for students who withdraw from public schools to enroll in alternative educational settings, stating that those who are ineligible at the time of withdrawal due to academic or behavioral issues will remain ineligible for interscholastic athletics. It also clarifies that no school district or charter school is required to provide transportation or alter schedules to accommodate these students. The Department of Education is tasked with reviewing the impact of this legislation on interscholastic athletic programs two years after its enactment.