As Gov. Phil Murphy promotes universal pre-K, private providers say regulations inhibit public-private partnerships

Sen. Teresa Ruiz says the primary motive is to protect health and safety of children

Lawmakers pass bills focused on reading skills, state will spend more

Measures incorporate so-called science of reading strategies — phonics, extensive teacher training and student evaluations — and would appoint a learning loss czar

Lawmakers propose new task force after failed effort to extend the time between evaluations

Kevin Dehmer spent over 15 years in various roles at the department

Sen. Andrew Zwicker introduces 'new and improved' legislation to curb book bans

Jaffer left office because of racism she faced and stressed the importance of supporting women of color

The proposed program aims to redirect people away from the criminal justice system

Doula care is one focus of first lady Tammy Murphy’s Nurture NJ program

Deptford’s controversial policy would mean alternative meals or no food at all for some children

Some 120 positions have been filled by retirees in school districts across the state

Emphasis placed on youth mental health, as reports of depression increase

New law sets aside $20M in seed money

Advocates are frustrated. One knocks budget allocation as a Band-Aid

Legislation would help ensure appropriate treatment for petty offenders with history of mental illness, ease burden on criminal justice system

Community advocates and security experts say such a system could violate student and staff privacy, lead to overpolicing of students

Official emphasizes listening to constituents, lawmakers, children and families

The Neark hospital has raised millions for first phase but far short of what’s required

NJ raises rates for Medicaid clients, had been paying among nation’s lowest