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Reading Universal Screener

Meryl Becourtney, Supervisor of ILA and Social Studies, Grades K-6

Why are East Brunswick Public Schools administering a reading universal screener?

Newly enacted New Jersey literacy legislation aims to strengthen early literacy outcomes, promote educational equity, and ensure success for every student. The law establishes a unified vision for literacy instruction across the state and is supported by substantial statewide resources and guidance.

Starting in the 2025–2026 school year, all New Jersey students in grades K–3 will participate in biannual assessments using approved universal literacy screeners to identify early reading challenges and provide timely support.

East Brunswick Public Schools will:

  • Assess students in grades K–6 three times per year
  • Notify families of screening results within 30 days of each screening window
  • Provide individualized, data-informed interventions tailored to student needs
  • Submit screening data to the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE)

These measures align with the New Jersey Tiered System of Supports (NJTSS) and Intervention & Referral Services (I&RS), reflecting the district’s commitment to evidence-based early intervention and equitable literacy instruction.

By using universal screening tools, data-driven instructional decisions, and tiered interventions, East Brunswick Public Schools will proactively identify students at risk for reading difficulties and provide timely, targeted support. This approach will help close learning gaps before they become long-term academic barriers, ensuring all students have equitable access to high-quality literacy instruction.

Highlights of the Legislation

Enacted as P.L. 2024, Chapters 52 and 53, the legislation includes:

  • Creation of a Statewide Literacy Working Group and implementation of Universal Literacy Screeners (S2655/A4303)
  • Establishment of the Office of Learning Equity and Academic Recovery (LEAR) (A2288/S2647)

The legislation charges the Working Group on Student Literacy with providing key recommendations to the NJDOE, including:

  • Implementing evidence-based literacy strategies
  • Selecting reliable tools for universal literacy screening
  • Adopting high-quality instructional materials to support literacy development
     

The Working Group on Student Literacy Recommendations Report was released on March 19, 2025. Further guidance was provided in May 2025 through The New Jersey Literacy Framework: A Guide to Evidence-Based Literacy Practices & Universal Screeners.

Universal Screener Q & A

For more information about the NJ Literacy Legislation visit the Office of Learning Equity & Academic Recovery website.