(TRENTON) - Bipartisan legislation
sponsored by Assembly Speaker Sheila Oliver, Republican Leader Jon M. Bramnick,
Assemblyman Daniel Benson and Assemblyman Jerry Green to give students
participating in the American Legion Jersey Boys State or the American Legion
Auxiliary Jersey Girls State programs college credit for successfully completing
the week-long course in government was approved 76-0 Monday by the General
Assembly.
“These
are exemplary students and potential leaders in government,” said Oliver
(D-Essex). “Chosen for their interest in civics and academic excellence, the
students deserve credit for the intensive study and participation that is
required of them while in this program. Let’s give them a head start as a reward
for their hard work.”
“The Boys and Girls State programs
provide high school students with a lifetime's worth of knowledge about our
political system and government process,” said Bramnick
(R-Union/Morris/Somerset). “Young students deserve college credit for completing
this challenging program to advance their education and leadership
skills.”
Under the bill, public and
independent institutions of higher education would be permitted to grant up to
three college credits to high school students who successfully complete the
American Legion Jersey Boys State or the American Legion Auxiliary Jersey Girls
State programs. The bill also would direct the Commission on Higher Education to
encourage New Jersey colleges and universities to award students’ credit for
successful completion of the programs.
“As an alum of the American Legion
Jersey Boys State, I know firsthand the benefits that these programs offer to
young people who are interested in learning more about how our democratic
government works,” said Benson (D-Mercer/Middlesex). “The education given and
the level of work expected from participants is exceptional and worthy of
college credits.”
“These programs give young people who
may be interested in pursuing a career in politics a hands-on understanding of
how our government works,” said Green (D-Middlesex/Somerset/Union). “Giving
college credits for the intensive work completed during the programs rewards
participants, and gives those interested in joining another incentive to
participate in these valuable programs.”
The
goals of Boys State and Girls State programs are to: develop leadership and
pride in American citizens; educate participants about our system of government;
instill in participants a great understanding of American traditions; and
stimulate a desire to maintain our government process. The Jersey Girls State is
currently based at Georgian Court College. Jersey Boys State is currently based
at Rider University.
The bill now heads to the Senate for
further consideration.
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