Chris Cerf and NJ restructuring

Chris is restructuring NJ's ed system:

 

The State Board of Education today approved a dramatically new organizational structure for the Department of Education focusing on four key pillars of reform and reaffirming Governor Christie's pledge that education reform is the next big thing for New Jersey to tackle.  Following the notification that state education aid is increasing $850 million over last year, with all school districts receiving an increase in funding, this structural reorganization is the latest step towards improving student achievement.   The State Board also approved 16 appointments to senior level positions, including the appointment of Dave Hespe, former Education Commissioner, as Chief of Staff.

 

"While New Jersey currently spends more money per pupil than almost any other state, our 'achievement gap' for low-income students is one of the largest in the country, leaving many of our most vulnerable students without the options they deserve," said Acting Commissioner Chris Cerf.  "By focusing on four nationally recognized pillars of reform - high standards and rigorous assessments, data and accountability, educator effectiveness, and innovative school models – we are poised to ensure all New Jersey students, regardless of socioeconomic status, are college and career ready."

 

Acting Commissioner Cerf has prioritized four pillars of reform for New Jersey schools, with a goal to ensure that all students in New Jersey graduate from high school college and career ready.  The State Board's approval today aligns the Department to deliver on these pillars, by assigning a new Assistant Commissioner role to oversee each one: