Funding for Optimal Comprehensive Universal Screeners (FOCUS) Grant

The Funding for Optimal Comprehensive Universal Screeners (FOCUS) grant, provided by the New Jersey Department of Education, supports Local Education Agencies (LEAs) in implementing high-quality universal literacy screeners for grades K-3. With a budget of $5.25 million, this initiative aims to enhance early literacy identification and instruction, ensuring compliance with state literacy standards. The grant fosters a data-driven approach to literacy education and promotes effective practices across New Jersey's educational landscape.

Funding for Optimal Comprehensive Universal Screeners (FOCUS)
Purpose:
The Funding for Optimal Comprehensive Universal Screeners (FOCUS) grant aims to support LEAs to adopt and implement high-quality universal literacy screeners that align with the Universal Literacy Screening Criteria as outlined in the guidance provided by the Department to meet the screening requirements in kindergarten through grade 3 (K-3) according to State law.
The New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) has established a twelve (12) month grant program. This grant program is open to all New Jersey Local Education Agencies (LEAs) that serve grades K-3. Please refer to Appendix A of the NGO for a list of eligible LEAs and maximum award amounts.
Purpose of the NGO
The New Jersey Department of Education (the Department) established the Office of Learning Equity and Academic Recovery in accordance with P.L. 2024, c.53. This office is tasked to promote student literacy and advance learning equity through academic recovery practices, improve the Department's capacity to make data-driven decisions, coordinate resources within the Department to promote implementation of effective literacy instruction, provide research best practices to support the creation of effective literacy practices and support local education agencies (LEAs) in developing and implementing best practices. The office also steers work related to learning equity, learning acceleration practices, and related professional development opportunities.
Pursuant to P.L.2024, c.52, starting with the 2025-26 school year all LEAs must use universal screeners to gauge students' achievement of key literacy skills in alignment with New Jersey Student Learning Standards-English Language Arts (NJSLS-ELA). More information pertaining to this legislation, including Department guidance, can be accessed through a Broadcast from the Department.
The FY2025 Appropriations Act includes $5.25 million to assist schools in adopting and utilizing universal screening tools. This funding enables LEAs to purchase and implement these tools effectively, enhancing early literacy identification and instruction. The Funding for Optimal Comprehensive Universal Screeners (FOCUS) grant, one of two grants supported by that appropriation, aims to support LEAs to adopt and implement high-quality universal literacy screeners that align with the Universal Literacy Screening Criteria as outlined in the guidance provided by the Department to meet the screening requirements in kindergarten through grade 3 (K-3) according to State law.