Grief Classes in NJ Schools: Setting a Nationwide Trend?

Grief and loss are challenging topics, especially for adolescents. While some kids receive support from parents, counselors, and other qualified sources, many do not. A recent law in New Jersey now mandates grief instruction for students in grades 8 through 12, covering the physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms of grief. Education and state officials in NJ say this initiative aims to fill the gap in bereavement support in the public school system.

In-School Resources to Help Kids Cope

State Senator Jon Bramnick (R., Union), a primary sponsor of the bill, explains, “This law is important for explaining what young people experience when a tragedy occurs.” The Grief Instruction Bill earned the praise and support of both parties in the New Jersey state legislature. The law stems from increased awareness of students’ mental health issues before and after the pandemic, as well as the social and emotional impact of school shootings, the death of a friend or loved one, and other high-intensity experiences. 

The grief curriculum offers students in grades 8-12:

• Age-appropriate education on the symptoms of grief
• Coping mechanisms and techniques for handling grief and loss
• Resources like in-school support, mental health crisis support, and individual and group therapy

Governor Phil Murphy (D) stated, “Grief can be a debilitating experience that lasts a lifetime when not addressed properly. It is my hope that teaching grief and loss in schools will provide students with the tools and resources they need to cope with life's challenges.”

Insights From Funeral Professionals on Grief Classes

Elisha Elliott, a former educator and Community Outreach and Aftercare Coordinator at McGuinness Funeral Home in Woodbury, New Jersey, supports the new law. “It’s wonderful that someone finally recognized the need for grief education in schools,” Elisha says. People don’t think about grief until they’re faced with a crisis. It's crucial to understand that death and dying are natural parts of life, and it’s okay to seek help with grief.”

Elisha also highlights the impact of the pandemic, heavy social media use, and peer pressure on children: “I see too many broken young people struggling with so much.”

Parental Support for the Grief Bill

Kara L., a mother from West Orange, New Jersey, applauds the law: “When my daughter lost her grandma, some teachers and friends were supportive. But having a curriculum on understanding and processing grief would have been even more helpful.” 

Many parents share Kara’s concerns about teen mental health and wellness, with issues like bullying, social media pressure, and gun violence as top concerns.

A survey by Your Teen for Parents magazine found that parents worry most about middle school bullying, social media pressures, and mental health. These factors contribute significantly to the overall well-being of adolescents, making the introduction of grief education all the more pertinent.

Training the Grief Teachers

The New Jersey State Board of Education will provide the law's standards and curriculum. Health and physical education teachers will be responsible for teaching the course, which concerns Elisha: “Grief is a multifaceted emotion that people experience in their own way. It’s not like teaching about good hygiene.”

Elisha believes that professionals with a psychology or social work background should present bereavement education: “My biggest concern is that the Board gets information from experts who truly understand grief. They should reach out to experienced grief counselors through the New Jersey State Funeral Directors Association or similar organizations.”

Grief Affects All Ages

Elisha advocates for grief awareness for all grades, starting as young as kindergarten. “Five-year-olds lose their parents and other family members, too,” she says. A safe space for kids and teens to share their feelings is essential, as children often worry about being judged or misunderstood. Grief experts say 70 percent of bereaved children are under 13.

For parents outside of New Jersey, here are several reliable sources of bereavement support for grieving children and teens: 

• National Alliance for Grieving Children
• The Dougy Center for Grieving Children & Families
• National Child Traumatic Stress Network – Tips for Caregivers of Teens
• Winston’s Wish

By addressing grief education in schools, New Jersey sets a precedent that could influence other states to adopt similar measures. This initiative recognizes the profound impact of grief on young people and provides them with essential tools to navigate their emotions and experiences.

Local funeral providers are also excellent bereavement resources. They are often connected to local grief support groups, faith-based agencies, and community providers ready to help.