New Jersey
New Jersey has implemented several literacy policies aimed at improving reading proficiency among its students. The state's literacy efforts focus on early intervention, evidence-based instruction, and support for struggling readers. One key policy is the New Jersey Student Learning Standards, which outlines the skills and knowledge that students need to develop in order to be successful readers, including phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.
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New Jersey provides training and support for educators in evidence-based literacy practices, such as explicit instruction and the use of assessment data to inform instruction. The state has established the New Jersey Literacy Institute to provide guidance and support to educators and promote evidence-based literacy practices.
New Jersey uses a statewide assessment, the New Jersey Student Learning Assessment (NJSLA), to monitor student progress in reading and identify areas where additional support is needed. The state's Response to Intervention (RTI) framework provides a systematic approach to identifying and supporting struggling readers, with tiered levels of intervention based on student needs.
The New Jersey Department of Education also partners with local organizations and agencies to promote literacy development through initiatives such as the New Jersey Literacy Coalition and the New Jersey Reading Corps. These programs aim to support literacy development among students and families, particularly those in low-income communities. Additionally, the state has established the New Jersey Early Literacy Initiative, which provides support for early literacy development among young children in the state.
New Jersey Student Score Gaps:
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This data represents a decline from the 2019 percentage of 4th grade students not reading at the proficient level, which was 58%.
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In 2022, Black students had an average score that was 28 points lower than that of White students. This performance gap was not significantly different from that in 2003 (36 points).
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In 2022, Hispanic students had an average score that was 22 points lower than that of White students. This performance gap was not significantly different from that in 2003 (24 points).
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In 2022, male students in New Jersey had an average score that was lower than that of female students by 12 points.
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In 2022, students who were eligible for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) had an average score that was 30 points lower than that for students who were not eligible. This performance gap was not significantly different from that in 2003 (30 points).
Information from the NAEP website for 2022 4th grade reading scores.
NEW JERSEY'S EVIDENCE-BASED CHAMPIONS
NJ EVIDENCE-BASED ORGANIZATIONS
These organizations are committed to promoting evidence-based reading practices, providing professional development opportunities for educators, and supporting students in developing strong reading skills.
New Jersey Department of Education
https://www.nj.gov/education/
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New Jersey Literacy Association
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New Jersey Orton Gillingham Association
https://www.ortonacademy.org/location/new-jersey/
The International Dyslexia Association - New Jersey Branch