TRENTON, April 3, 2017—The New Jersey School Boards Association has issued a major report that includes extensive research and resources on the school board’s role in advancing teaching and learning, the impact of poverty on achievement gaps, the importance of early childhood education and social-emotional learning, and other critical topics.

Published March 21, The Final Report of the NJSBA Task Force on Student Achievement includes 83 recommendations for action by local school boards, individual board members, and the community at-large. It resulted from intensive study and deliberation by the Task Force, followed by many months of research by the Association staff. Comprised of local school board members and NJSBA staff, the Task Force also involved resource persons from higher education, the teaching profession, the public health sector and the faith-based community.

The 20-member Task Force was initiated by Immediate Past President John Bulina. It was chaired by Avery Grant, a member of the Long Branch Board of Education. Peter Calvo, a member of the Glassboro school board, served as co-chair.

“Not only will this this report provide direction on local school board policy in areas related to student achievement, it will also serve as a resource for board members and other education advocates on best practices and relevant research,” said NJSBA President Donald Webster, Jr.

“We thank the Task Force for its work. The final product is very impressive and will serve public education well,” commented NJSBA Executive Director Dr. Lawrence S. Feinsod.

The Final Report of the Task Force on Student Achievement can be accessed at staging.njsba.org/student-achievement2017.

******

The New Jersey School Boards Association is a federation of the state’s local boards of education and includes the majority of New Jersey’s charter schools as associate members. NJSBA provides training, advocacy and support to advance public education and promote the achievement of all students through effective governance.