NJCF to Award Nearly $1 Million in Special Education Innovation Grants

The New Jersey Children’s Foundation (NJCF) announced a $1 million grant program, “Accelerating Outcomes for Exceptional Learners,” to improve education for students with disabilities and multilingual learners in Newark. Open to both charter and district schools, the program offers grants up to $100,000 for two years, starting in July 2024. NJCF Executive Director Barbara Martinez emphasized, “We know that all educators in Newark are interested in serving all of its students better… and we want to support that work and help them prove what’s possible for all learners.” Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka praised the initiative for boosting students’ academic achievements and self-esteem. Additional funding is available for schools implementing data tracking and professional development. NJCF is also partnering with the All Means All School Leadership Program to train leaders in fostering inclusive school cultures. State and local officials, including state Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz, support the initiative for its innovative approach to special education and multilingual learning.