Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Chapter32 Civic Absence topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board begins first reading of Chapter 32 amendments to add one civic‑event excused absence for grades 6–12
Summary
At first discussion the board reviewed proposed amendments to NJAC Chapter 32 to add a definition of 'civic event' and permit up to one state‑excused absence per year for students in grades 6–12 who attend an approved civic event with written parental notice five days in advance.
The State Board of Education held a first discussion Tuesday on proposed amendments to Chapter 32 (School District Operations) that would align state regulations with Public Law 2023, c.274 and add a one‑day state‑excused absence for students who attend approved civic events.
Assistant Commissioner Ambrose (transcript: Ambrose Docket/Duckett) and Robert Gregory summarized the two proposed changes. The first adds a definition of “civic event” that mirrors 18A:36‑33.1: an event sponsored by a government entity, a community‑based organization, or a nonprofit that incorporates service learning and addresses an issue of public concern such as community health, safety, environmental, economic or community well‑being. The second amendment would add “attendance at a civic event” as a state‑excused absence option, permitting up to one day per year for students in grades 6 through 12 when a parent or guardian provides written notice at least five days in advance.
Board members asked clarifying questions about frequency and preapproval. Ambrose clarified the proposal is for one civic‑event absence per year and that districts may maintain local attendance policies that provide broader excused‑absence options. No vote was taken; this item was presented for first discussion and alignment with the public law was noted by department staff.
What happens next: the department will circulate the full proposed regulatory text as part of the rulemaking process and the board will consider further discussion or subsequent readings before a formal vote.
