Teacher certification in New Jersey no longer requires passing basic skills tests in reading, writing, and math, following a new law signed by Gov. Phil Murphy (D). The policy, effective Jan. 1, aims to address teacher shortages across the state.
Supporters of the measure, including the New Jersey Education Association, claim the tests created unnecessary obstacles for aspiring educators. The union had long advocated for this change, which they say will increase the number of eligible teaching candidates.
This state's teachers will not be required to pass a basic skills test starting Jan 1
FOX Business' Brian Brenberg criticizes a new NJ law that removes testing requirements for teachers and colleges in the U.S. are reportedly expecting to see enrollment drop.
Source: Fox Business pic.twitter.com/UGb4AbDDuq— Camus (@newstart_2024) January 2, 2025
Critics argue that the move undermines accountability in education. They point out that allowing untested teachers into classrooms risks compromising the quality of instruction students receive.
NJ drops basic skills test for teachers
America's largest teachers union is pushing to remove basic skills requirements, add more sexuality and DEIhttps://t.co/aOIzAtdUiQ
— The Gold Report (@FrontlineNewsUS) January 2, 2025
New Jersey is not alone in easing teacher certification standards. States like California, Arizona, and New York have implemented similar measures in recent years, citing challenges caused by pandemic-related disruptions.
I'm sharing this again today to clarify the reason for the elimination of the basic skills test for NJ teachers. A certain teachers' union has all the money in the world to shamelessly promote their president for governor, and to promote every woke social cause du jour, but… pic.twitter.com/q5GVbFPmgI
— Dawn Fantasia (@DawnFantasia_NJ) December 30, 2024
While the law seeks to address immediate staffing needs, some suggest focusing on strengthening teacher training programs rather than reducing qualifications. Proposals for competency-based hiring models are gaining traction as alternatives to traditional credentials.
This debate reflects broader concerns about declining education standards nationwide. Reports suggest that modern college degrees may no longer indicate mastery of fundamental skills once considered essential.
