Aligning Evidence-Based Literacy Instruction to New Jersey’s Frameworks (K–3)

Beginning in the 2025–26 school year, New Jersey school districts must conduct universal literacy screenings for students in kindergarten through grade 3. Districts must also ensure that students performing below grade level receive effective interventions aligned with evidence-based practices.

The literacy initiatives provide a clear direction for improving early reading outcomes. By aligning screening practices, evidence-based instruction, targeted interventions, and teacher support, schools can build literacy systems that help more students reach grade-level expectations.

This checklist can help school leaders ensure that their instructional materials and teaching practices reinforce these components, which are mandated through state literacy legislation and the New Jersey Literacy Framework from the Office of Learning Equity & Academic Recovery. The checklist offers guidance for conducting effective screenings and turning the results of those screenings into high-quality instructional action quickly and consistently.

The resource explores factors that leaders should consider to gauge readiness for the state literacy changes, focusing on the following areas:

• Instruction

• Screening

• Intervention

• Teacher support

It also lists best practices for complying with the new standards, detailing the following steps:

• Confirming that core literacy instruction reflects evidence-based practices

• Treating universal screening as an early warning system

• Ensuring that interventions strengthen core instruction

• Providing teachers with practical support

• Monitoring progress and adjusting instruction

Download the checklist now to discover how New Jersey school leaders can measure their readiness to implement the state’s new guidance to evidence-based literacy practices.