TRENTON, N.J. — Governor Phil Murphy and Education Commissioner Kevin Dehmer on Thursday announced the release of a statewide literacy framework and two new grant programs aimed at strengthening reading skills among New Jersey’s youngest learners.
The initiative, rooted in legislation signed in August, includes the launch of the New Jersey Literacy Framework: A Guide to Evidence-Based Literacy Practices & Universal Screeners. The comprehensive online guide provides schools with strategies to deliver effective instruction and screening in kindergarten through third grade.
“We are thrilled that New Jersey’s literacy initiative is continuing to build momentum,” Murphy said in a statement, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to evidence-based literacy instruction and early academic development. Commissioner Dehmer added, “This is an initiative that will benefit all students, particularly our youngest students as they transition from learning to read to reading to learn.”
The Literacy Framework draws from recommendations released in March by the state’s Working Group on Student Literacy, which included educators, literacy experts, and parent representatives.
It outlines practices for high-quality screening, professional development, and family communication, all designed to meet new requirements that take effect in the 2025–2026 school year.
The guidance is available online via the New Jersey Department of Education’s Learning Equity and Academic Recovery webpage.
Key points
- New Jersey has released a statewide literacy framework for K–3 instruction
- Two grant programs totaling $5.25 million will support literacy screening and data-driven teaching
- Framework and grants are based on legislation signed by Governor Murphy in August
To support implementation, the Department of Education is releasing two grant opportunities for local education agencies (LEAs) across the state. The first, FOCUS Grants (Funding for Optimal Comprehensive Universal Screeners), will assist with purchasing screening assessments, teacher training, and student support services. All districts serving K–3 students are eligible.
The second, BRIDGE Grants (Building Responsive Instruction through Data Guided Evaluation), will be competitive and support the use of data from screeners to tailor instruction and interventions based on student needs.
Both grant programs are directly aligned with the Literacy Framework and the requirements of P.L.2024, c.52, the state law driving the literacy reforms.
The Murphy administration said these measures are intended to ensure that school districts are equipped with the resources and guidance to promote strong foundational reading skills starting in early childhood.
