Trenton, NJ —Teach NJ today welcomed Governor Phil Murphy’s signing of A5930/S4678,landmark legislation expanding eligibility for New Jersey’s STEM teacher grant program, a major statewide win that strengthens access to high-quality science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education for students in nonpublic schools.
Advanced through sustained advocacy by Teach NJ, the legislation removes long-standing barriers that limited schools’ ability to fully participate in the STEM program and helps address the broader STEM teacher shortage across the state.
“These laws show what is possible when policymakers and advocates stay focused on students and practical solutions,” said Katie Katz, Executive Director of Teach NJ.
“Teach NJ is honored to have helped move this work forward and to see real improvements that will expand access to STEM education and strengthen schools across New Jersey.”
The legislation broadening eligibility for the State’s STEM teacher grant program allows retired teachers and county college faculty in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields to participate alongside active public school teachers. This expansion widens the pool of qualified instructors and gives schools greater scheduling flexibility to offer advanced STEM courses during the school day.
“This program allows us to bring experienced STEM educators into our classrooms and give students access to advanced instruction we otherwise could not offer,” said Rabbi Jonathan Knapp, Head of School at Yavneh Academy.
“We are already seeing the impact through expanded coding and robotics courses and stronger preparation for college and future careers. This legislation directly strengthens instructional quality and helps address the STEM teacher shortage schools are facing.”
In signing the legislation, Governor Murphy underscored its broader impact, stating, “I commend the sponsors of this legislation for working to expand this innovative program that has increased access to advanced STEM education programs across the State,” and noted that the program advances educational equity and equips students with skills needed to thrive in New Jersey’s innovation economy.
Teach NJ expresses gratitude to the primary sponsors for the STEM initiative: Senator Vin Gopal, Assemblywoman Lisa Swain, Senator Raj Mukherji, and Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson, along with cosponsor Senator Shirley Turner.
“Every student deserves access to high-quality instruction and essential support,” said Katz.
“Teach NJ looks forward to continuing this work on behalf of New Jersey’s families.”
Teach NJ thanks Governor Phil Murphy for his leadership and partnership throughout his tenure, during which the State’s STEM teacher grant program was created and expanded, significantly strengthening access to high-quality STEM education across New Jersey.
Teach NJ also congratulates Governor Sherrill on her inauguration today and looks forward to working with her administration to continue expanding opportunities for students and families statewide.