Official Site of The State of New Jersey

Division: Learning Equity and Academic Recovery

Office:  Teaching and Learning Services

View Published NGO Document (Microsoft Word)

Purpose: 

The Funding for Optimal Comprehensive Universal Screeners (FOCUS) grant aims to support LEAs to adopt and implement high-quality universal literacy screeners that align with the Universal Literacy Screening Criteria as outlined in the guidance provided by the Department to meet the screening requirements in kindergarten through grade 3 (K-3) according to State law.

The New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) has established an eleven (11) month grant program. This grant program is open to all New Jersey Local Education Agencies (LEAs) that serve grades K-3 and that did not receive funding under the FY25 FOCUS grant program. Please refer to Appendix A of the NGO for a list of eligible LEAs and maximum award amounts.

Based on the availability of FY26 state appropriations, this grant program will begin November 1, 2025, and will end on September 30, 2026.

Eligible Agencies: LEAs serving grades K-3 that did not receive funding in 2025

Grant Type: Targeted

Number of Award(s) Anticipated: 153

Total Amount Available: $1,435,340

Application Due Date: 10/2/2025