Bill
S 4312
Bill S 4312 ensures equitable State aid for auxiliary services to nonpublic school students in New Jersey, enhancing educational support based on student needs.
Bill Number: S 4312
Title: Modifies method of allocating State aid for providing auxiliary and remedial services to nonpublic school students
Status: Reported out of Senate Committee with Amendments, 2nd Reading
Introduced: May 12, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Education Finance
Bill S 4312 aims to modify the existing framework for allocating State aid designated for auxiliary and remedial services provided to students attending nonpublic schools in New Jersey. The legislation seeks to ensure that all school-age children, including those in nonpublic institutions, have access to necessary educational support services.
Amendments to Existing Laws: The bill amends and supplements P.L.1977, c.192 and P.L.1977, c.193, which govern the provision of services to nonpublic school students.
State Aid Allocation: The bill establishes a new method for calculating State aid based on projected estimates of eligible students and the services they require. The maximum per service aid amounts will be determined by the Commissioner of Education, ensuring that funds are equitably distributed among school districts.
Reporting Requirements: Each board of education must report the number of nonpublic school children eligible for services annually by November 5. This includes students requiring evaluations, classifications, and speech correction services.
Funding Schedule: Districts will receive State aid equal to 10% of the estimated costs on the first day of September and monthly thereafter. If a district requires funds before September, they can request them from the Commissioner of Education.
Reimbursement for Transportation: If services require transportation or vehicular classrooms, costs will be reimbursed to the district as part of the State aid.
Refunds for Unused Aid: If a district spends less than the amount of State aid received, it must refund the unspent portion by December 1 of the following year.
Nonpublic School Students: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are students attending nonpublic schools who require auxiliary and remedial services.
Local School Districts: School districts will be responsible for reporting eligible students and managing the allocation of State aid for these services.
Commissioner of Education: The Commissioner will play a crucial role in determining aid amounts and ensuring compliance with the new provisions.
Legislative Timeline: The bill was introduced on May 12, 2025, and has undergone several amendments and committee reviews. It was reported out of the Senate Education Committee on June 5, 2025, and is currently in the 2nd reading stage.
Related Legislation: A companion bill, A 4854, is also under consideration, which may address similar issues regarding funding for nonpublic school services.
Bill S 4312 represents a significant shift in how State aid is allocated for auxiliary and remedial services to nonpublic school students in New Jersey. By establishing a more structured and equitable funding mechanism, the bill aims to enhance educational support for all students, regardless of their school affiliation.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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