TRENTON, N.J. — Five school districts in northwest New Jersey will receive state funding to expand high-impact tutoring programs under a nearly $7.5 million grant initiative announced by the New Jersey Department of Education.
The funding, awarded through the third round of the New Jersey Learning Acceleration Program: High-Impact Tutoring Grant, is designed to accelerate student learning in English language arts and mathematics through targeted, research-based instruction.
Local recipients include Vernon Township in Sussex County, which was awarded $160,000; Newton, $80,000; Belvidere in Warren County, $50,000; Mine Hill Township in Morris County, $40,000; and South Hunterdon Regional, $20,000.
State officials said the grants are designed to support tutoring programs during the 2026-27 school year and will help schools provide additional academic assistance before, during and after the school day, as well as through summer learning opportunities.
“High-impact tutoring is one of the smartest investments we can make in our students,” said Governor Sherrill. “Through programs like this, we’ve seen that when tutoring is done well, it leads to real, measurable learning gains. These grants reflect our commitment to investing in strategies that work and making sure every dollar drives progress for students and strong outcomes for our state.”
The Department of Education said high-impact tutoring programs funded through the grants are expected to include small-group instruction, sessions held at least three times per week, alignment with classroom lessons and ongoing monitoring of student progress.
The initiative also allows schools to use artificial intelligence tools to assist with scheduling and identifying learning gaps, while maintaining educator oversight.
“When high-impact tutoring is integrated into a school’s broader system of academic supports, the results can be significant,” said Dr. Lily Laux, Commissioner of Education. “Through targeted funding, we are helping districts design and implement high-quality programs that are aligned to classroom learning, delivered consistently, and evaluated over time so students get the support they need to meet, and exceed, grade-level expectations.”
The preliminary awards range from $20,000 to $400,000 statewide and are based on district enrollment and student performance data. The department said funding is directed toward districts where proficiency rates in grades 3 through 8 remain below 50%.
State officials said participating districts will track student participation and academic progress using local assessments and statewide data systems. The Department of Education will continue providing technical assistance and oversight throughout the grant period.
In total, 55 school districts and charter schools across New Jersey were awarded approximately $7.48 million through the latest round of funding. Additional funding could be awarded if more resources become available.
