The New Jersey Senate has passed legislation sponsored Senator Robert Singer (R-Monmouth) to explore how the state can better prepare high school students for postsecondary education.

Sen. Robert Singer’s bill establishes the “High School to College Readiness Commission” to explore how the state can better prepare high school students for college and careers. (SenateNJ)

S-2567 would establish the 18-member “High School to College Readiness Commission,” which would be charged with developing recommendations to enhance preparation for post-secondary education; and raise awareness among parents and students on admission requirements and other related issues.

“Less than half of all high school students feel prepared to go to college or start a career after graduation. Clearly, we can do more to help these young people gain the confidence, tools, and the knowledge to succeed once they enter the real world.” Senator Singer (R-Monmouth, Ocean) said.

“The High School to College Readiness Commission will give both parents and students the information they need to skyrocket to the top of every classroom and professional environment. I look forward to seeing it signed into law and reviewing their findings in the year that follows,” Singer, a longtime member of the Senate Higher Education Committee, added.

We need to do more get high schoolers ready for college. Less than 1/2 feel prepared. This is a great first step. https://t.co/awXWfGvKWB

— Senator Bob Singer (@bobsingernj) June 19, 2017

The commission established by Singer’s S-2567 would include: two parents of public school students, the Education Commissioner, Secretary of Higher Education, representatives from various school board and education-related associations, including 11 appointed by the Governor; two members appointed by the Senate President, and two members appointed by the Assembly Speaker.

Members appointed to the commission would serve without compensation. Staff and support services would be provided by the NJ Department of Education (DOE.)

Under the bill, the commission must issue a report of its findings and recommendations to the Governor and to the Legislature no later than one year following its organizational meeting.

The legislation passed the Assembly on June 8, 2017 and now heads to the Governor’s Desk for final approval. If enacted, the commission would have 30 days following the appointment of its members to get started.

More information on Senator Singer’s recent efforts to improve the affordability and quality of higher education for New Jersey students can be found here and here.