Bill > S1340

This bill requires the Commissioner of Education, in consultation with the Commissioner of Health, to create and distribute guidance to public schools on how to accommodate students who are fasting for religious or medical reasons. This guidance will include recommendations on flexibility for physical education, athletics, and exams, as well as strategies to support students without negatively impacting their academic standing or access to instruction aligned with the New Jersey Student Learning Standards, which are the state's educational standards. The guidance will also cover communication with parents, and professional development for school staff. Importantly, the bill clarifies that schools cannot alter state graduation requirements for fasting students unless already permitted by an individualized education program (IEP) or other laws, nor can they require fasting students to complete extra work to meet local graduation requirements due to accommodations. The Commissioner will consult with various stakeholders, including educators and community organizations, and the guidance must be made publicly available on the Department of Education's website within one year of the bill's enactment.