New Jersey is preparing for a new state-wide curriculum for its elementary and secondary schools.
The state is set to unveil the new state curriculum on April 30.
The new state standards are expected to focus on students’ interests and skills and allow for more discussion of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
They will also help teachers develop curriculum that’s aligned with current science and technology standards.
The state will begin the process of drafting a set of standards in the fall.
The standards will be released for public comment in December, and will be made public in January.
New Jersey’s school board has already approved the curriculum, but there’s no set deadline for its adoption.
In November, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie signed a law that makes it easier for parents to sign petitions that urge school boards to adopt the state’s new curriculum.
The law also allows the governor to approve or deny a petition if it “is consistent with the stated goals of the curriculum.”
The law gives the governor the power to override a petition that’s rejected.
The governor is currently considering whether to sign the new standards.
