Senator Christopher “Kip” Bateman (R- Somerset/Hunterdon/Middlesex/Mercer) has resubmitted legislation intended to promote volunteer community service in New Jersey’s public high schools.
The bill, S-76, would require public schools to provide an annual, in-school community service opportunity for students in grades 9-12. The proposal is one Bateman first submitted to the legislature in 2007.
“I believe that young people are increasingly losing sight of the importance of giving back and helping their neighbors as a fundamental part of citizenship,” said Bateman. “Technology has put an array of entertainment and leisure activities at children’s fingertips unlike ever before, which discourages volunteerism and interaction with their community.”
The bill also requires the New Jersey Department of Education to include community service statistics in its annual school report card.
Bateman said that volunteerism and service are an important part of a well-rounded education that prepares students for adulthood. “Emphasizing volunteerism at a young age can increase the likelihood that students will carry a spirit of service into adulthood,” he continued. “Communities are strengthened when ordinary citizens get involved where they live: whether it is serving on a local board or commission, volunteering as a coach or mentor, or helping the less fortunate.”
S-76 has been referred to the Senate Education Committee, where it waits for a hearing.
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