Security funding for Jewish community day schools and all non-public schools in New Jersey has become the collaborative priority of state advocates for the community.

“The Orthodox Union Advocacy Center–TEACH NJS is pleased to partner with Agudath Israel of New Jersey, Chabad of New Jersey and NJ State Association of Jewish Federations to advocate for the Secure Schools for All Children Act,” stated Josh Pruzansky, NJ Regional Director of the Orthodox Union Advocacy Center–TEACH NJS.

The four advocacy organizations represent the entire spectrum of New Jersey’s diverse Jewish community. “Our shared goal is to speak with one voice to the Governor and legislative leadership and underscore the necessity of security funding for all children, especially in this time of many threats to community safety,” noted Rabbi Avi Schnall, NJ Director of Agudath-Israel.

The Act (A4288) was introduced by Assemblyman Gary Schaer (Bergen-Passaic), chair of the Assembly Budget Committee. Senator James Beach (Camden) has introduced the S2889, the senate version of the legislation.

“The initiative would allocate $25 per non-public school student, providing our day schools with a resource for security services and equipment and technology,” stated Jacob Toporek, Executive Director of the NJ State Association of Jewish Federations. “Non-public school students will be treated equitably when it comes to their safety, as is similarly provided by the state now for all public school students,” added Toporek.

“We appreciate what Assemblyman Schaer and Senator Beach are trying to accomplish for our children, crafting legislation that delivers fairness for all of New Jersey’s children, especially in the subjects of health and safety,” said Rabbi Avi Richler, Legislative Director for the Rabbinical College of America and its Chabad affiliates.

“The Jewish community stands together on this important issue,” Pruzansky stated. “We call upon all Garden State citizens to urge their legislators and Governor Christie to effectively address the security concerns of our day school and non-public school students and their parents,” Pruzansky added on behalf of the four organizations. ​

[TLS]