This bill establishes mandatory class size limits for school districts in New Jersey, particularly focusing on preschool and high poverty districts. It stipulates that preschool classes in State-funded programs cannot exceed 15 children. For high poverty school districts, defined as those with 40% or more at-risk pupils, class sizes are capped at 21 students for grades K-3, 23 for grades 4-5, and 24 for grades 6-12. In contrast, other school districts are limited to a maximum of 25 students in grades K-12, with exceptions for physical education, performing arts, multi-grade academies, and personalized learning environments. The bill also mandates that the State will cover 100% of the costs incurred by districts to comply with these class size limits.

The legislation aims to address the negative impact of increased class sizes on student learning, which has been exacerbated by reductions in State aid following the enactment of P.L.2018, c.67. By codifying these class size regulations, the bill seeks to enhance educational outcomes by ensuring that students receive more individualized attention in smaller class settings. The provisions of the act will not affect existing collective negotiations agreements and will take effect immediately, applying to the second full school year following its enactment.