NJASA

“We have zero tolerance for bullying and agree that we should put strong controls in place,” said Dr. Richard Bozza, executive director of the NJASA. “However, we are concerned that the new law—while based on good intentions—is so prescriptive that it could stand in the way of effective resolution of bullying incidents.”

Dr. Bozza cited the 18-page compliance checklist issued by the state. “Districts throughout the state are trying to understand what the law requires so that they can implement it,” he said.

Governor Christie signed the new law, P.K. 2010 Chapter 122 on January 5, 2011 to go into effect the following September 1. The law, also known as the Anti-bullying Bill of Rights, requires school districts, charter schools, the New Jersey Department of Education, other state agencies, professional associations and institutions of higher education to meet a long list of requirements. These include stringent timelines for reporting and investigating incidents and notifying parents.

The new state law strengthens and expands the role and responsibilities of schools in dealing with bullying, intimidation and harassment. It requires districts to intervene in incidents that happen outside of school or online, if they disrupt or interfere with the operation of the school or the rights of students.

“Not every incident will be bullying but there will be a tendency to want to report it just in case,” noted Dr. Bozza.

The New Jersey Association of School Administrators and the New Jersey School Boards Associations have organized training sessions throughout the state over the last month to brief administrators on the new law. More than 1,000 educators and school board members have attended.

Dr. Bozza called for parents, clergy and the community to stay involved, as well. “Our goal is a safe and supportive school environment where students can learn and succeed,” he said. “Even with the toughest law in the nation, the schools can’t do it alone. We need your support.”

About NJASA

The New Jersey Association of School Administrators is an organization of chief education officers and school administrators who lead school districts in New Jersey’s 21 counties. The association’s mission is to ensure a superior statewide system of education. Through ongoing professional training and education, the association shares knowledge among its members about best practices from both educational and administrative perspectives. Its goal is to move education forward by ensuring the highest quality of instruction for all New Jersey children.

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