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Bill

Bill

S 247

Eliminates high school graduation proficiency test.

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Linda Greenstein and 4 co-sponsors

S 247 eliminates New Jersey's mandatory high school graduation proficiency test, allowing diplomas based on district-determined criteria instead.

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Education Committee
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Bill Summary · S 247

Legislative bill overview

S 247 eliminates New Jersey's high school graduation proficiency test as a requirement for earning a diploma. The bill removes the standardized testing mandate that currently students must pass to graduate, allowing diplomas to be awarded based on other criteria determined by school districts.

Why is this important

High school graduation requirements directly affect millions of students' educational pathways and college/career readiness signals. This change could reshape how districts assess student competency and potentially impact employer and college perceptions of New Jersey diploma standards.

Potential points of contention

  • Academic standards debate: Opponents may argue standardized proficiency tests ensure consistent educational quality across districts and verify that graduates meet baseline competencies; supporters counter that tests are narrow measures that don't capture full student capability
  • Equity and access concerns: Critics could claim removing standardized measures eliminates a transparent benchmark that reveals disparities between districts; others argue high-stakes testing disproportionately disadvantages low-income and minority students
  • College/employer confidence: Questions about whether removing this requirement affects how universities and employers evaluate New Jersey high school credentials compared to other states with proficiency testing

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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