On Friday, Dec. 16, 2022, Gov. Phil Murphy signed S-896 w/GR into law, which prohibits the New Jersey State Board of Education from requiring completion of a commissioner-approved performance-based assessment for certification (the Educative Teacher Performance Assessment, or edTPA test), according to an advisory from the New Jersey Department of Education.

The law shifts the responsibility of determining the performance assessment for program completion to educator preparation programs beginning with spring 2024 program completers. The NJDOE intends to promulgate regulations, offer guidance and provide support to educator preparation programs as it implements the law.

In the meantime, as the law takes effect immediately, the NJDOE will begin implementation in accordance with the following general guidelines.

Candidates Currently Enrolled in Educator Preparation Programs

Approved New Jersey educator preparation programs may identify a temporary measure of pedagogical skills in lieu of the commissioner-approved performance assessment required for program completion. Prior to nominating certificate of eligibility and certificate of eligibility with advanced standing candidates for certification, educator preparation programs must notify the NJDOE of any changes in program completion requirements in accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:9-3.2(c). Additional information for this process will be provided to educator preparation programs by the Office of Recruitment, Preparation and Certification.

Certificate of Eligibility through Reciprocity Candidates Seeking Standard Certification

Provisional teachers holding a certificate of eligibility through reciprocity will be exempt from the performance assessment and may be eligible for a standard certificate upon completion of all other standard certification requirements pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:9B.

Certificate of Eligibility with Advanced Standing Candidates

The following candidates seeking a certificate of eligibility with advanced standing will be exempt from the performance assessment and may be issued the certificate provided they meet all other certification requirements:

  • Reciprocity candidates pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:9B-8.8.
  • Out-of-state program completers.
  • Candidates who have met all other requirements of an approved New Jersey educator preparation program.