Education (Elections)

This bill allows school districts in New Jersey to offer one-time virtual or remote instruction to students attending public schools that are being used as polling places on April 16, 2026, for a special election. The measure permits districts to count this day of remote learning toward the state's 180-day school attendance requirement, which is normally only counted during declared emergencies. Districts must ensure students have access to necessary technology and follow existing virtual instruction guidelines approved by the state education commissioner. The superintendent of schools decides whether to implement the program and must notify parents, staff, and the school board of the decision.

This bill allows school districts in New Jersey to offer one-time virtual or remote instruction to students attending public schools that are designated as polling places for a special election on April 16, 2026. The measure permits districts to count the day of remote instruction toward the state's 180-day school attendance requirement, provided the virtual learning program follows existing approval standards and students have access to necessary technology. School superintendents will have the authority to implement this instruction after consulting with the board of education and notifying all stakeholders. The provision applies only to this specific election and does not require districts to combine in-person and remote instruction on that day.

This bill allows public school students aged 14 and older in New Jersey to receive excused absences for participating in non-partisan election-related activities on general election day. Students must provide documentation - including a supervisor’s signature, activity description, and proof the activity was approved by their school and not partisan - to their school administrators. The bill specifically covers activities like observing polls, simulated voting, or transporting voters, as long as the school board approves them in advance and the student’s academic performance meets school-set standards. Schools may deny excused absences if a student’s academic achievement falls below a board-defined level.

This bill requires New Jersey school districts to hold capital project referendums (like votes on building new schools or renovations) during specific statewide elections - either June primary elections or November general elections - rather than on special school election dates. It directly affects school districts that need voter approval for major construction projects funded by bonds. The bill prohibits these referendums from being scheduled on special school election dates (such as January or March) unless the election is already being held for another purpose. It also mandates clear ballot language disclosing total project costs, state aid, and any additional expenses beyond standard efficiency standards.