TRENTON, NJ — A bill sponsored by State Senator Troy Singleton that would require New Jersey schools to incorporate bullying awareness and prevention education into learning standards for students from preschool through high school has advanced in the New Jersey Legislature.

S-4457, which was also sponsored by Senator Angela V. McKnight (D-Hudson) moved out of the Senate Education Committee last week. The measure would incorporate bullying awareness and prevention education into the New Jersey Student Learning Standards and the New Jersey Preschool Teaching and Learning Standards, which would be designed to “develop an awareness and sensitivity on how bullying can intersect with intolerance of race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender or gender identity, ability or other distinguishing characteristics," said the bill sponsors in a statement. 

“Bullying has no place in our society, and early education is one of the best ways to build awareness and prevent these behaviors before they take root,” said Senator Singleton (D-Burlington), who represents Bordentown in the Legislature. “Consistent lessons on bullying as part of New Jersey’s education standards can help our kids build the confidence and knowledge to recognize bullying, call it out, and build a more compassionate and inclusive community.”

Under the legislation, the curriculum would define bullying and its various types, including physical, verbal, social, and cyberbullying, and would also address the lasting nature of social media posts, along with the harm that online harassment can cause. It would also address the permanence of social media posts and the potential harm caused by online harassment. Students would also learn about the disciplinary and criminal consequences of bullying. The Commissioner of Education would provide school districts with age-appropriate sample learning activities and resources.

“In a time that feels increasingly intolerant, we must teach our children that leading with kindness is still valued and calling out bullying anywhere is the right thing to do,” said Senator McKnight (D-Hudson). “Incorporating bullying awareness and prevention education into our learning standards will help students understand the impact their actions have on others, build empathy, and give them the confidence to speak up when something isn’t right."

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