Bridging the Learning Gap: BookSmiles and NJTC Partner to Empower New Jersey's Students

In a strategic move to address the widening learning gaps in New Jersey's education system, the nonprofit BookSmiles has announced a groundbreaking partnership with the New Jersey Tutoring Corps (NJTC). This collaboration aims to put thousands of new and gently-used books into the hands of students who have limited access to reading materials, ultimately empowering them to overcome academic challenges and reach their full potential.

Unlocking the Power of Literacy: A Transformative Partnership

Addressing the Learning Crisis

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the learning challenges faced by students across New Jersey, with the state's 2022 New Jersey Student Learning Assessments (NJSLA) revealing that 64.6% of students were not meeting grade-level expectations in math, and 51.1% in English Language Arts. However, the NJTC, a statewide tutoring program serving K-8 students, has been making significant strides in addressing these learning gaps.

Bridging the Gap with Books

The partnership between BookSmiles and the NJTC will significantly expand the reach of both organizations, allowing them to provide even more free books to students in need. BookSmiles, which has already given away approximately two million books, will now work closely with the NJTC to ensure that its vast collection of new and gently-used books reaches the hands of the students who need them most. This collaboration is expected to offset the NJTC's annual expenditure of ,000 on materials and books, allowing the organization to redirect those funds directly into instructional support.

Empowering Scholars, Transforming Lives

The NJTC, established in 2022 by First Lady Tammy Murphy, has already seen remarkable results in its initial pilot program. In just one year, the percentage of students performing at grade level in the NJSLA increased by 16% to 40% in math and 23% to 40% in literacy. With nearly 80 locations across 18 counties and a staff of 400 serving over 3,600 students this school year, the NJTC is poised to make a significant impact on the educational landscape of New Jersey.

Fostering a Love for Reading

The partnership between BookSmiles and the NJTC is not just about providing books; it's about nurturing a love for reading and learning among New Jersey's students. By ensuring that every child has access to a wide range of reading materials, the organizations aim to inspire a generation of avid readers who will thrive academically and develop a lifelong passion for knowledge.

Scaling Solutions, Amplifying Impact

The collaboration between BookSmiles and the NJTC is a testament to the power of innovative partnerships in addressing the core learning challenges facing New Jersey's education system. As BookSmiles founder Larry Abrams aptly stated, "To battle the inequity seen in the state's public education system, we must find ways to work together and scale the clear solutions we have built on the local level." This partnership is a shining example of how organizations can come together to create lasting change and provide greater opportunities for all New Jersey public school students.