This bill amends New Jersey law to allow certain noncitizen teachers to be eligible for tenure, a status that protects them from dismissal or pay reduction except under specific circumstances. Currently, noncitizen teachers can obtain a teaching certificate if they declare an intention to become U.S. citizens, but they are ineligible for tenure unless they are U.S. citizens. The bill repeals existing laws that prevent noncitizens from acquiring tenure and introduces new provisions that allow holders of noncitizen teaching certificates to qualify for tenure if they meet the necessary requirements.

Specifically, the bill states that noncitizen teachers who have declared their intention to become U.S. citizens and are otherwise qualified can be issued a teaching certificate. Furthermore, it stipulates that these teachers will be eligible for tenure, and any teaching services they performed prior to the bill's effective date will count towards meeting tenure requirements. The bill aims to enhance the teaching workforce by recognizing the contributions of noncitizen educators in New Jersey's public schools.