This bill amends existing law to allow school districts in New Jersey to utilize virtual or remote instruction during inclement weather to fulfill the minimum requirement of 180 school days. Specifically, if a school district closes due to inclement weather, the commissioner will permit the district to count a day of virtual or remote instruction, provided it lasts for four or more hours. However, this provision can only be applied to a maximum of three days per school year. Additionally, the bill mandates that each school district's board of education, as well as the boards of trustees for charter schools and renaissance school projects, must develop and adopt a policy for implementing virtual or remote instruction on such days.

The bill also includes several insertions to clarify the rights and compensation of public school employees during closures. It ensures that employees covered by collective bargaining agreements will receive compensation as if the schools were open, and outlines the obligations of school districts regarding contracted service providers during extended closures. The provisions aim to maintain educational standards and employee rights while adapting to unforeseen circumstances that disrupt traditional schooling. The act is set to take effect on the first day of the fourth month following its enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:7F-9