On Feb. 24, 2022, the New Jersey Department of the Treasury’s Division of Pensions and Benefits released a Notice to Certifying Officers regarding implementation of P.L.2021, c. 408, which permits, for the 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 school years, local educational agencies, including school districts, charter schools and renaissance school projects, to hire retired teachers and professional staff members providing special services for up to two years without reenrollment in the Teachers’ Pension and Annuity Fund. Chapter 408 also permits an extension of this flexibility upon application to the commissioner of education, the New Jersey Department of Education announced in an advisory.
A one-year extension for the 2023-2024 school year to LEAs that hired retired staff members is permissible in accordance with Chapter 408. This extension is applicable only to LEAs and staff that implemented the provisions of Chapter 408 during the 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 school years. To apply for an extension, LEA leads must submit a letter to the executive county superintendent that details the names, positions held, certifications and school assignments of the staff members hired under Chapter 408 for processing. If the request for an extension is approved, the LEA will receive a letter of approval from the NJDOE.
The LEA is responsible for updating the retired staff member’s Notification of Employment After Retirement (form ee904) to reflect an end date of June 30, 2024.
For specific pension-related questions, contact the Division of Pensions and Benefits at 609-292-7524 or via email
