Early Literacy: New Jersey Reading Initiatives

Overview
  Philosophy/Principles

   •Emphasis on Language Arts Literacy,
   •Adherence to SBRR and the five essentials of Reading per USDOE, and
   •Adds adherence to New Jersey's sixth essential of Reading: motivation and background knowledge.

  Structure

   •Uses 90-minute block of time for LAL in K-3,
   •Recommends 120 minute block for bilingual/ESL classes,
   •Provides a classroom library of 300 titles,
   •Maintains a Reading Center (Pre-K-3), a technology center (K-3), and a writing center (Pre-k-3),
   •Provides class size not exceeding the following:
      o Pre-K: 15
      o K-3: 21
      o Each Pre-K and K must have an aide, and
   •Requires specific time devoted to small group instruction during the Reading block.

  Curriculum

   •Utilizes curriculum mapping that aligns curriculum to texts, materials and supplies; includes strategies and techniques, thematic organization, and assessment,
   •Includes preschool expectations,
   •Requires differentiated materials and multiple entry points for special populations,
   •Requires native language and ESL Reading as per State bilingual law,
   •Requires use of appropriate software,
   •Requires seamless transition from Pre-K to K, and
   •Names specific Reading strategies (direct, small group, guided, shared, and other SBRR).

 •Recommends the use of state-approved comprehensive reading programs and supplemental materials as listed on the website, and
 •Recommends no program or materials be used without SBRR documentation.

  Assessment and Testing

   •Assesses English Language Proficiency grades PreK-3,
   •Utilizes levels of assessment (screening, benchmarks, diagnostic, annual testing), and
   •Utilizes state-approved norm-referenced annual test.

  Compensatory and Supplemental Services
   • Provides supplemental services for children reading below grade level in accordance with NCLB.
  Professional Development
   •Develops district plan or school level plan in cooperation with the WSR developer, and
   •Includes the areas of
      o SBRR and the five components of Readin
      o Curriculum and mapping
      o Approved strategies
      o Assessment.
  Populations Served
   •Impacts all primary schools, and
   •Impacts all populations including bilingual/ESL and special needs.
  Personnel (addditional )
 •Recommends a Reading Coordinator and Literacy Coaches.