This bill establishes the Support for Students Exposed to Domestic Violence Fund within the New Jersey Department of Education. The fund is designed to provide financial support to public schools for initiatives aimed at addressing the impact of domestic violence on students. It will be funded through annual appropriations from the Legislature, federal grants, and other available resources. The funds can be utilized for various purposes, including providing school-based therapy and trauma-informed mental health services, identifying resources to assist school districts, and offering grants for the employment and training of personnel who deliver these services.
The Department of Education will oversee the administration of the fund and determine the methodology for allocating resources to public schools. Additionally, schools that receive funding will be required to report back to the department on how the funds were utilized. This initiative aims to enhance support for students affected by domestic violence, ensuring they have access to necessary mental health services and resources within their educational environments.