In an Aug. 26 broadcast memo, the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) announced the launch of a new literacy coaching opportunity for LEAs: the Systems for Tiered Reading and Ongoing Growth in Early Reading, or STRONG-ER program.
Carried out in partnership with Rutgers University, STRONG-ER is designed to build local capacity to implement the New Jersey Tiered System of Supports for Early Reading through year-long literacy leadership team training and coaching support for educators, ensuring young learners have access to the tools and resources needed to become strong, confident readers. Participating LEAs will be expected to examine, and as needed, shift instructional practices towards evidence-aligned structured literacy principles.
Eligibility to apply is limited to LEAs serving grades K-3 and not engaged in other NJDOE-supported coaching initiatives. STRONG-ER will prioritize districts where data indicate the greatest need for accelerated literacy growth. This includes districts with lower Grade 3 NJSLA ELA proficiency rates, lower Grade 3 phonics literacy screening outcomes, and larger performance disparities affecting students with disabilities and multilingual learners.
Interested LEAs may submit an online application. Applications are due by Wednesday, September 16. Selected LEAs will be notified in October, with project activities starting later that month. The NJDOE will also host a technical assistance session September 9, 10-10:30am to provide a more detailed overview of the program.
For additional information, including eligibility details and the full application, please see the NJDOE’s broadcast memo.
