By: Richard L. Smith
Officials from the New Jersey Department of Education announced on Monday the schools participating in a significant research initiative aimed at identifying and highlighting innovative practices that have successfully accelerated student learning.
Among these institutions is Newark's University High School, recognized for its exceptional growth in student performance following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The initiative, known as the Promising Practices Project, is a collaborative effort with the New Jersey State Policy Lab and the Joseph C. Cornwall Center for Metropolitan Studies, both affiliated with Rutgers University.
The project focuses on exploring the strategies and programs that successful schools have implemented to overcome learning losses and improve academic outcomes in the aftermath of the pandemic.
Researchers from Rutgers have identified 52 schools across 47 local educational agencies, including both school districts and charter schools, that have shown remarkable progress in student achievement in English Language Arts and Mathematics.
These schools, including University High School, have been recognized for their innovative approaches to addressing the unique challenges faced by students during the pandemic.
The research team has conducted interviews with school leaders and educators from these schools to pinpoint the most effective strategies employed to support student learning.
The findings from these interviews will be compiled into a formal report with the aim of sharing these successful practices with schools throughout New Jersey.
The goal is to enable other educators to replicate these approaches, thereby supporting accelerated learning for students across the state.
Governor Phil Murphy emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Working together to identify classroom-tested strategies that address our children's most pressing academic needs is paramount. Through the Promising Practices Project, we are pulling together invaluable first-hand feedback from educators across the state – from Sussex to Cape May – to support accelerated learning and ensure our students are on pace to meet their educational goals."
Acting Education Commissioner Kevin Dehmer also highlighted the project's significance, noting, "We hope that teachers statewide will be able to capitalize on the information in this initiative to provide students with innovative approaches tailored to their learning needs. We know that students throughout the state have struggled to fully recover academically in the post-pandemic world, and we remain committed to ongoing efforts to support their growth."
The research delves into various promising practices in curriculum, school climate, and additional programs, such as summertime and after-school initiatives, aiming to meet the diverse needs of student populations.
The project's findings will be disseminated through presentations, resources, and convenings, ensuring successful strategies are shared and implemented across New Jersey's schools.
For more details on the Promising Practices Project, interested parties are encouraged to visit the project's dedicated webpage.
The state allocated $1 million for this research initiative in its FY23 budget, underscoring its commitment to improving student outcomes in the post-pandemic educational landscape.