Caputo Introduces Measure Allowing Grade Retention for Students During 2021-2022 School Year

(TRENTON) – The past year has been harsh for many, especially children attending school remotely.  Many students have not been able to physically be in the classroom making the education process much more difficult.  To ensure that there are no set-backs in a child’s development and education, Assemblyman Ralph Caputo (D-Essex) introduced legislation that would allow parents or guardians to request grade retention for a student during the 2021-2022 school year.

The bill (A-5365) would allow a student enrolled in any of the grades kindergarten through eight to repeat the grade level they were enrolled in during the 2020-2021 school year.  Under the bill, the parent or guardian must consult with the school principal, or another school leader, and the student’s teacher before submitting the request for grade retention. Assemblyman Caputo has been and will continue to work with the New Jersey Department of Education to ensure that students are receiving the accommodations required to further their education.

Upon introducing the measure, Caputo issued the following statement:

“The COVID-19 pandemic has put a great strain on our children’s education.  With the difficulty to get resources and the lack of in person teaching, many students and families are seeing setbacks in development and learning.  This bill will allow students the opportunity, if they need, to retake any of the grades K-8 for the 2021-2022 school year and get back on track toward maximizing their education and building relationships with fellow classmates.”