Gov. Sherrill proposes doubling funding for high-impact tutoring in New Jersey schools
FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Somerset County) — Gov. Mikie Sherrill on Tuesday highlighted a proposal to double state funding for high-impact tutoring programs, a move that would expand the initiative to nearly 100 additional school districts and reach thousands more students across New Jersey.
During a visit to Elizabeth Avenue School in Franklin Township, Somerset County, Sherrill promoted her Fiscal Year 2027 budget proposal, which would increase funding for high-impact tutoring from $7.5 million to $15 million. The proposal is part of a record $12.4 billion investment in K-12 state aid included in the governor’s budget plan.
High-impact tutoring is an evidence-based instructional strategy that provides students with frequent, small-group tutoring aligned with classroom learning. State officials said the approach has produced measurable academic gains in districts that have implemented the program.
“As a mom of four, I understand the importance of building strong academic foundations that set students up for lifelong success,” said Governor Sherrill. “When it comes to our children’s education, we must ensure we are getting the best return on every dollar the State invests. That means prioritizing evidence-based programs with a proven track record of success. By expanding access to high-impact tutoring, we are giving thousands of students across New Jersey the support they need to catch up, excel, and reach their full potential.”
According to state officials, tutoring programs in Camden have led to an 80% increase in math scores and a doubling of literacy scores. In Elk Township, 74% of participating students improved by at least one full grade level in reading, with some advancing as many as five grade levels.
“At the Department of Education, our focus is on helping schools deliver timely, targeted support so every student can succeed with grade-level work,” said Dr. Lily Laux, Commissioner of Education. “High-impact tutoring is one of the most effective tools we have. When it is aligned to classroom instruction and targeted to where students need it most, it drives measurable gains in math and literacy while strengthening schools’ broader systems of support.”
In Franklin Township Public Schools, students participating in the tutoring program achieved two or more grade levels of growth in English language arts, while 83.2% improved by more than one grade level in mathematics, according to the state.
Officials said the proposed funding increase would allow the program to serve approximately 13,500 additional students compared with the current fiscal year.
“Education is one of the smartest investments we can make in New Jersey’s future,” said Senator Bob Smith. “High-impact tutoring is helping students make meaningful academic gains and ensuring they have the strong foundation needed for lifelong learning. The incredible strides in literacy made in Franklin Township exemplify that when students have access to high-impact tutoring programs, they excel. Expanding this initiative will help more children succeed in school and beyond.”
“As the son of a public school teacher, here in Franklin, I know the importance of a quality education, as it becomes your compass as one prepares for life; but it also becomes life itself,” said Assemblyman Joe Danielsen.
The proposed investment would build on the state’s existing high-impact tutoring initiative, which has provided grant funding to school districts and charter schools through three funding cycles. The New Jersey Department of Education announced Tuesday that 55 school districts and charter schools will share $7.5 million in Fiscal Year 2026 funding through the program.
