Official Site of The State of New Jersey
Developing Resiliency with Engaging Approaches to Maximize Success (DREAMS) Program
The DREAMS Program was created in response to the overwhelming need for youth support programming to empower our students to better manage the anxiety, stress, and fear that ensued as a result of the recent pandemic. First piloted in the 2021-2022 school year, the DREAMS Program has received additional funding to continue this important work through the close of the 2025-2026 school year.
The New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) plays a supportive role to the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (NJ DCF), in offering a limited number of school districts a no-cost opportunity to receive training and education in trauma-informed and healing-centered practices through the DREAMS Program. This program aims to promote healthy and healing school environments and will provide educators with resources and supports to aid in both their job satisfaction as well as in building positive connections with students and classrooms conducive to student learning.
For a snapshot into the DREAMS Program, take a look through the following DREAMS Flyer.
Should you have any questions regarding the DREAMS Program, you may email:
NJ DCF CSOC: ciani.eugene@dcf.nj.gov
NJDOE: SafeSupportiveSchools@doe.nj.gov
Please visit our Trauma-Informed and Healing-Centered Practices webpage for related resources as well as information on Positive and Adverse Childhood Experiences (PACES).
DREAMS Showcases
DREAMS 2021-2022SY Showcase
DREAMS 2023-2024SY Showcase
DREAMS 2024-2025SY Showcase
DREAMS Program Reach
Graphic 1 - Statewide Service Provision for DREAMS Program (Cohorts 1-4)
DREAMS Program Spotlights
Burlington County Special Services School District
Students brainstormed different ways they could reset themselves before erupting like a volcano.
Franklin Township School District – Hunterdon County
A greatness card template was created to support school staff and students in recognizing one another.
Hope Academy Charter School
Created NHA Reference Cards available in different languages that parents and caregivers could utilize after being trained in the approach.
Marlboro Township School District – Early Learning Center
NHA inspired activity during faculty meeting to support staff in shifting classroom culture and practices.
New Brunswick School District - Redshaw School
A guide created for students based off of the reset component of the Nurtured Heart ApproachTM.
Plumsted Township School District
Created a “Take what you Need, Leave what you Can” board which supported positive messaging and building of school climate.
Point Pleasant Beach School District
A template for a staff recognition card was created to build positive relationship and connection among staff.
Scotch Plains-Fanwood School District
A reset sheet was created to assist students with self-awareness and regulation.
Tuckerton Borough School District - Tuckerton Elementary School
An elementary class created a book with entries from each student sharing what having a nurtured heart means to them.