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New Jersey Schools Clash Over Student Cell Phone Bans as Statewide Policy Stalls

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With the new school year just weeks away, New Jersey school districts are taking matters into their own hands over student cell phone use—while the state stalls on creating uniform rules

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, Governor Phil Murphy called for a statewide ban on student cell phones during his State of the State address in January, citing classroom distractions and social media’s negative impact on mental health. The resulting bills, S3695/A4882, however, would only require the Commissioner of Education to draft guidelines within 90 days—if passed.

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Record $58.8 Billion NJ Budget Draws Criticism Over Spending, Taxes from Business Leaders

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the staff of the Ridgewood blog

TRENTON, NJ — Governor Phil Murphy signed a record-breaking $58.8 billion budget for fiscal year 2026, marking the largest in New Jersey history — and his final as term-limited governor. While the spending plan includes some relief for small businesses and education, critics say it leans heavily on tax hikes and fiscal overreach.

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New Jersey Ranks 8th in the Nation for Average Teacher Salary in 2023-24, Says NEA Report

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the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Trenton NJ, a recent report from the National Education Association (NEA) has ranked New Jersey eighth in the nation for average teacher salary during the 2023-24 school year. According to the NEA’s Rankings and Estimates Report, the average salary for teachers in New Jersey was $82,877, a 2.2% increase from the previous year’s $81,102 and over $10,000 higher than the national average of $72,030.

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New Jersey Traffic Deaths Rise in 2024 Despite National Decline

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the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Trenton NJ, Traffic fatalities in New Jersey rose sharply in 2024, according to newly released data from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). While the nation saw an overall decline in roadway deaths, the Garden State recorded a troubling 14.7% increase compared to the previous year.

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