
Hosted by NJPSA/FEA · EN

This episode focuses on understanding the evolution of the tobacco industry’s efforts to target minors and promote tobacco use, the resources available through the Institute for Nicotine and Tobacco Studies to assist school districts and others throughout the nation, and lessons learned from prior successes in addressing tobacco use among youth.Host - David Nash, Esq., Director of Legal Education and National Outreach, FEAGuest - Kevin Schroth, Esq., Associate Professor in the Department of Health Behavior, Society, and Policy at the Rutgers School of Public Health and member of the Institute for Nicotine and Tobacco Studies, Rutgers University

This episode focuses on the evolving trends related to use of tobacco products by students, effective strategies for working with youth at the grassroots level, relevant legal obligations for school officials, and a review of a comprehensive toolkit developed by New Jersey Prevention Network and LEGAL ONE.Host - David Nash, Esq., Director of Legal Education and National Outreach, FEAGuests - Diane Litterer, Executive Director, New Jersey Prevention Network; Carlo Favretto, Statewide Youth Coordinator - Incorruptible Us, New Jersey Prevention Network

In this episode, listeners will learn about the key legal requirements that must be addressed when schools and law enforcement work together to address student substance use and related issues. Listeners will gain insights into key aspects of the Memorandum of Agreement between Education and Law Enforcement and learn key strategies for ensuring the most effective possible working relationship between schools and law enforcement.Host - David Nash, Esq., Director of Legal Education and National Outreach, FEA Guest - Patrick Kissane, President of NJ Association of School Resource Officers

In this episode, listeners will learn about the critical functions served by the Student Assistance Coordinator (SAC) in New Jersey schools, and how the SAC plays a key role in promoting a comprehensive drug and alcohol counseling program and promoting student wellness.Host - David Nash, Esq., Director of Legal Education and National Outreach, FEA Guest - Lori Roland, LPC, LCADC, Student Assistance Coordinator, Brick Township High School

In this episode, listeners will learn about the essential role of the school nurse in addressing student substance use and the related health issues that arise. The broad scope of responsibilities of the school nurse will be reviewed. Key aspects of how the school nurse works closely with other key stakeholders, including the school principal, Student Assistance Coordinator, parents and students, will be highlighted, along with strategies for building strong connections with those other key players.Host - David Nash, Esq., Director of Legal Education and National Outreach, FEA Guest - Kathy McCutcheon, MSN, RN, NCSN, Lecturer, Rutgers School of Nursing- Camden, School Nurse Program, Member, New Jersey State School Nurse Association

In this episode, listeners will learn about some of the innovative ways that schools can effectively engage with students and parents to address substance use prevention. Listeners will learn about the New Jersey Prevention Network’s extensive work with students and school leaders and key strategies for building a strong network of student leaders and working closely with families.Host - David Nash, Esq., Director of Legal Education and National Outreach, FEA Guest - Carlo Favretto, Statewide Youth Coordinator, New Jersey Prevention Network

In this episode, listeners will learn about some of the emerging trends regarding student substance use and how to remain informed about the ever changing nature of student substance use. Listeners will hear valuable insights from an experienced school leader about how to build a culture of trust and respect that enhances information sharing and helps promote student safety.Host - David Nash, Esq., Director of Legal Education and National Outreach, FEA Guest - Bob Mikos, Program Development and Training Specialist, New Jersey Prevention Network

In this episode, listeners will learn about the legal requirements that must be followed when there is reason to believe that a student may be under the influence of alcohol or a controlled dangerous substance. Listeners will learn about the landmark New Jersey case, In Re Graceffo, and the relevant statutes that address this issue. Participants will also learn about the related legal considerations that the school principal needs to consider in addressing both the imminent issue of a student suspected of being under the influence, and the broader role of the principal in addressing substance use education, prevention, and response.Host - David Nash, Esq., Director of Legal Education and National Outreach, FEA Guests - Robert Schwartz, Esq., NJPSA Chief Legal Counsel and John Farinella, Esq., NJPSA Legal Counsel and former high school principal

Safely transporting students to and from school, school events, and school field trips can be a complex endeavor, and raises the potential for numerous health and safety concerns. In this episode, listeners will learn about major changes in New Jersey law that have been enacted in recent years, existing state and federal requirements, the rights of parents to direct what happens at student dismissal and new options available for addressing the shortage of bus drivers. The episode will provide clarity on legal obligations related to addressing student health issues, dealing with student behavior issues, working with private bus companies and ensuring proper training and information sharing.Host: David Nash, Esq., Director of Legal Education and National Outreach, Foundation for Educational AdministrationGuests: Janine S. Byrnes, President, New Jersey School Transportation Supervisors Association; Sandra Jacques, Esq., LL.M, Assistant Director of Legal Education, Foundation for Educational Administration

Meaningful and effective evaluation systems are a critical element of a high quality public school system. But while our society and the demands on our schools have rapidly transformed in recent years, our staff evaluation systems have often remained stuck in a prior 20th century model. In this episode, listeners will hear about steps that are being taken in the State of New Jersey to reenvision staff evaluation, and the important changes to staff evaluation that are being implemented in the short term as part of the larger effort to reimagine staff evaluation going forward. Listeners will learn about ongoing legal obligations related to staff evaluation and progressive supervision, key changes in effect for the 2025-26, and potential changes under consideration for the future.Host: David Nash, Esq., Director of Legal Education and National Outreach, Foundation for Educational AdministrationGuest: Karen Bingert, Executive Director, New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association