New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A4308

Introduced
5/10/24  

Caption

Requires school districts to implement reading intervention program for students in certain grades as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in English Language Arts.

Impact

The implementation of A4308 mandates a data-driven, multi-tiered system of supports for reading instruction. This program will not only provide explicit instruction in essential reading components such as phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension but will also closely monitor student progress throughout the academic year. Adjustments to instructional methods are anticipated based on ongoing assessments of student needs, which underscores a commitment to individualized learning strategies.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4308 is legislation aimed at enhancing early literacy among students in grades kindergarten through three within New Jersey. The bill requires school districts to implement a structured reading intervention program that assists students demonstrating reading deficiencies. This initiative stems from the necessity to align with the New Jersey Student Learning Standards in English Language Arts, thereby ensuring that educational institutions prioritize foundational reading skills in the early years of education.

Contention

While the bill promotes essential early literacy improvements, it may face opposition based on implementation logistics and resource allocation in school districts. Critics may question the adequacy of funding and support for the development of high-quality instructional materials that adhere to scientifically-based reading research. Furthermore, the successful application of such programs across diverse educational settings could present challenges, particularly in underfunded or overcrowded districts. Ensuring equitable access to the resources necessary for effective program rollout will likely be a key consideration as the bill is debated.

Companion Bills

NJ S2644

Same As Requires DOE to establish working group on student literacy; mandates universal literacy screenings for kindergarten through grade three students; requires professional development for certain school district employees.

NJ A4303

Replaced by Requires DOE to establish working group on student literacy; mandates universal literacy screenings for kindergarten through grade three students; requires professional development for certain school district employees.

NJ A4304

Replaced by Requires school districts to provide training and coaching to certain teachers on student literacy and reading interventions; requires DOE to establish program for literacy coaches.

Similar Bills

NJ S4061

Requires school districts to implement reading intervention program for students in certain grades.

NJ S2644

Requires DOE to establish working group on student literacy; mandates universal literacy screenings for kindergarten through grade three students; requires professional development for certain school district employees.

MS HB857

Literacy-based Promotion Act; revise to expand intervention and strategies for literacy proficiency among students in Grade 4 through 8.

MS HB1626

Mathematics Proficiency and Intervention Act; establish to provide intensive multitiered system of supports for students in kindergarten through Grade 3.

NJ A5378

Requires Commissioner of Education to establish matching grant program for certain school districts and schools using federal funds to increase instructional time and accelerate learning.

NJ S4027

Requires Commissioner of Education to establish matching grant program for certain school districts and schools using federal funds to increase instructional time and accelerate learning.

DE HB69

An Act To Amend Title 14 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Reading Competency.

NJ S2073

Requires Commissioner of Education to establish matching grant program for certain school districts and schools using federal funds to increase instructional time and accelerate learning.