This volume, a third edition updated and expanded from the two previous editions, is an introduction to the essentials of school law in New Jersey and a reference tool for readers experienced in educational law. Chapter 1 focuses on the legal structure of New Jersey public education, addressing such primary issues as the flow of authority to educate, state educational institutions, and the administration of school laws. Chapters 2 and 3 focus on the legal structure of local school districts and the authority of the local board of education. Chapter 4 addresses current legal issues in the relationship of school finance to educational quality. Chapter 5 addresses legal responsibilities with respect to the educational environment--school lands and buildings, attendance and transportation, pupil health and safety, the school program, and disabled pupils. Chapter 6 is a survey of students rights and responsibilities with respect to suspension and expulsion, grades, corporal punishment, freedom of speech, dress codes, student records, searches, student organizations, patriotic observances, and student vandalism. Chapters 7 and 8 discuss the legal rights and responsibilities of school management and staff personnel respectively, while chapter 9 describes the laws governing public participation in, and disclosure of, school board proceedings. Chapter 10 sets forth school budget guidelines for the two types of school districts. Chapter 11 sets forth procedures for school elections, and chapter 12 focuses on contract law and other statutory provisions as they affect school district business practices. Appended are an overview of the New Jersey and federal judicial systems and an index. (TE)