New Jersey has stirred controversy by lowering its teacher certification requirements in response to staffing shortages. Gov. Phil Murphy (D) approved legislation eliminating the need for prospective teachers to pass basic tests in reading, writing, and math. The law, which took effect Jan. 1, aims to address significant gaps in staffing, particularly in math and science.
State Sen. Jim Beach (D), a supporter of the bill, defended the move as a necessary step to combat teacher shortages worsened by the pandemic. The New Jersey Education Association, a powerful teachers union, backed the change, calling the testing requirements “unnecessary barriers.”
This state's teachers will not be required to pass a basic skills test starting Jan 1
FOX Business' Brian Brenberg criticizes a new NJ law that removes testing requirements for teachers and colleges in the U.S. are reportedly expecting to see enrollment drop.
Source: Fox Business pic.twitter.com/UGb4AbDDuq— Camus (@newstart_2024) January 2, 2025
While teachers in the state earn an average of $81,102 annually, critics argue that bypassing basic skills tests undermines the education system’s integrity. They point to similar actions in states like New York, California, and Arizona, where certification standards have also been relaxed.
NJ drops basic skills test for teachers
America's largest teachers union is pushing to remove basic skills requirements, add more sexuality and DEIhttps://t.co/aOIzAtdUiQ
— The Gold Report (@FrontlineNewsUS) January 2, 2025
Proponents claim the changes will broaden the pool of candidates, but detractors question whether this will lead to hiring unqualified individuals. Skeptics argue that instead of lowering standards, potential teachers could receive additional training to meet the requirements.
I'm sharing this again today to clarify the reason for the elimination of the basic skills test for NJ teachers. A certain teachers' union has all the money in the world to shamelessly promote their president for governor, and to promote every woke social cause du jour, but… pic.twitter.com/q5GVbFPmgI
— Dawn Fantasia (@DawnFantasia_NJ) December 30, 2024
This shift reflects a broader trend in education, with critics warning that prioritizing credentials over competence weakens foundational skills. They also note that credentialism can overshadow the importance of practical knowledge, with some pointing out that many without degrees could easily pass teaching exams but are barred from the profession.
The debate comes as education faces increased scrutiny over declining student performance nationwide. A 20-year-old study revealed that modern college graduates often possess skills equivalent to a 1947 high-school diploma, raising concerns about the efficacy of higher education.
These changes coincide with reports of academic malpractice and reduced expectations, raising questions about the long-term effects on students’ futures and the nation’s educational competitiveness.
