Part 2/7:
The decision emerges amid a national trend observed in several states, including New York, California, and Arizona, where teachers' certification requirements have been relaxed to combat shortages. Advocates for the law, including Democratic Senator Jim Beach and representatives from the New Jersey Educational Association (NJEA), argue that the previous testing requirements acted as unnecessary barriers, discouraging capable individuals from pursuing careers in education.
Currently, teachers in New Jersey earn an average salary of around $81,000—a figure that underscores the profession's appeal. However, officials contend that the rigorous testing requirements deter many from entering the field, leading to staffing challenges in schools across the state.