Official Site of The State of New Jersey

First through Third Grade Implementation Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the New Jersey First through Third Grade Implementation Guidelines?
   1. The New Jersey First through Third Grade (1–3) Implementation Guidelines are part of a suite of guidelines which includes Preschool and Kindergarten Guidelines. The First through Third Grade Guidelines are an essential tool in building continuity from preschool through grade three (P–3) programs. The document provides school districts knowledge and resources to implement developmentally appropriate practices and support high quality programs in first through third grades.
2. Are the First through Third Grade Implementation Guidelines mandated?
   1. No, the First through Third Grade Implementation Guidelines are not mandated. However, school districts are strongly encouraged to use this resource to enhance professional conversations among educators or for action planning, and to ensure that our first through third grade classrooms are developmentally appropriate learning environments where all students thrive.
3. How often are the Implementation Guidelines updated?
   1. The guidelines are updated to reflect the most current research and developmentally appropriate best practices in first through third grade and may be updated or revised at any time.
4. Are there other guidelines for other grades available?
   1. Yes! Please visit the P–3 Alignment tab to see the Preschool, Kindergarten, and First through Third Grade Guidelines documents.
5. Who wrote the First through Third Grade Implementation Guidelines?
   1. Experts and practitioners from the New Jersey Department of Education, local education agencies, New Jersey higher education institutions, as well as national experts in content and pedagogy all contributed to this comprehensive guidance to address the social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development of New Jersey's children.
6. Are there resources available within the Implementation Guidelines?
   1. The guidelines include extensive citations and reference lists to support educators and parents and families with research-based and developmentally appropriate resources. In addition, the Division of Early Childhood Services offers a library of video resources in the P–3 Educator Exemplars and Early Learning Experts Video Library. This video library of exemplary teaching models and advice from early learning experts is a professional development tool. Exemplar videos align with the best practices included in the Preschool, Kindergarten, and First through Third Implementation Guidelines
7. How can the PowerPoint on the First through Third Grade Implementation Guidelines be used?
   1. The information can be used during school/district professional development or within professional learning communities (PLCs). The information can be turn-keyed so others will be able to discuss and implement all sections of the Guidelines. Considering referring to Section 5 of the First through third Grade Implementation Guidelines with other professional development suggestions.