Official Site of The State of New Jersey
Model Programs
Model Programs sponsored by the New Jersey Department of Education seeks:
- To highlight promising practices and celebrate the great work being done by local educational agencies (LEAs) and schools around dual language immersion and world languages education; and
- To provide regional resource centers across the state where educators can witness exemplary instruction and programmatic practices in dual language immersion and world languages education.
To be considered as a model program, districts or schools complete an application. Resources have been provided to help districts reflect on their program and prepare to apply. A committee of peers and content area experts review applications and visit districts or schools. Districts or schools that are designated as model programs retain that designation for two years and serve as a regional resource center for other districts. Deadline to complete online application and submit documentation is June 28, 2024.
- Dual Language Immersion Model Programs Guidance provides step by step guidance to complete the online application. Review the entire document to prepare responses and gather evidence before beginning the application. Once the application has been started, it cannot be saved for completion later.
- Overview of World Languages Model Programs Application lists the information and evidence required to complete the application.
- World Languages Model Programs Guidance provides step by step guidance to complete the online application. Review the entire document to prepare responses and gather evidence before beginning the application. Once the application has been started, it cannot be saved for completion later.
What is the selection process timeline for Model Programs?
| Selection Process | Timeline |
| Applications Accepted | March – June 2024 |
| Applications Reviewed | Summer 2024 |
| Site Visits | October 2024 – January 2025 |
| Final Review | February 2025 |
| Notification | March 2025 |
Do applications need to reflect an entire instructional program?
No. Districts and schools can choose to apply for their entire program or highlight components of their program (e.g., heritage language education, language specific programs, grade bands, etc.).
How long do dual language immersion programs need to be in existence to be eligible for recognition?
Dual language programs must have existed for at least three years to qualify for Model Programs recognition.
Can previously recognized Model Programs reapply?
Yes. Previously designated programs are encouraged to reapply and highlight in their applications how they have expanded learning opportunities for students.
When designated as a Model Program, what is the districts’ or schools’ responsibility?
Districts or schools designated as model program sites will serve as resource centers for other districts and enable educators to witness exemplary second language acquisition practices.