The New Jersey Department of Education has drafted the revised student learning standards for ELA and Math - a process that happens every 5 years. We are encouraging stakeholders like yourselves to be a part of the process whereby the state reaches out for comments and input about the draft standards.
But how would we know? you might ask.
Exactly. Although some parents are knowledgeable, for the most part, we are not expected to know the standards. But as parents, we can get a sense of the revisions and learn more about what other stakeholders -- our teachers, principals, and superintendents - think about the revisions.
Following is a link to the revised standards. You only really need to read the first few pages, as there is a synopsis included.
You have until June 7 to submit written input to the NJDOE (njstandardscomments@doe.nj.govs ), and as the NJPTA is working to possibly send a statement, please copy us on your response. Lastly, please reach out to school staff who are invested in the ELA and Math program to ask their opinion.
Did you know that traffic crashes and fatalities are rising at an alarming rate in New Jersey? According to the NJ State Police, fatalities have risen nearly 26% since 2019. In 2022, 705 people were killed – the most fatalities on New Jersey roads in 15 years. Studies have shown consistent driving during the learning period reduces crashes in the first year of driving. But while most other states require between 40 and 60 hours of supervised driving practice to get a license, New Jersey requires just 6 hours. Surprisingly, we are one of only 3 states in the entire country which has yet to adopt a practice hours requirement under State law.
We feel it is time to take action.
NJPTA has joined Partners for Practice hours in support of NJ Bill S2789/A3793 -- legislation that requires new permit holders under 21 to complete 50 hours of supervised practice driving. The Partner for Practice Hours coalition, with over 25 members, includes traffic safety advocates, medical professionals, insurance organizations, traumatic brain patient advocates, educators, parents and students.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends parental certification of practice hours as part of their recommended Graduated Driver’s Licenses (GDL) program. Requiring new young drivers to log 50 practice hours will provide our youngest drivers with the vital experience they need to drive safely and confidently and will help prevent additional devastating tragedies on our roads.
As a parent, nothing is more important than our children’s safety. It's time for New Jersey to join 47 other states in passing a practice hours requirement for young drivers. In the coming weeks, be on the look out for a Call to Action to urge your local state representative to pass S2789/A3793!
Following helpful sites for students learning to drive and their parents…
