COMPENSATORY EDUCATION

The Compensatory Education (CE) program serves approximately 3,600 students attending 93 schools. The subject areas of concentration for CE are Mathematics, Reading and Writing. In an effort to make maximum use of the instructional time, a well planned curriculum is followed by all teachers. Accurate student records are maintained to ensure continuity of basic skills instruction and to document student growth.

In order for a student to participate in the CE program they must be eligible for the services. There are three methods by which a student is eligible. The most common method is based on the score a student receives on a standardized test administered in the spring by the nonpublic school. If a student scores below the Minimum Level of Proficiency (MLP) as determined by the New Jersey Department of Education, the student is automatically eligible for CE services.

The second method used to determine eligibility requires the completion of a Multiple Measures Form (MMF) by the classroom teacher. The form contains 24 skills associated with success in the classroom. If the teacher identifies deficiency in at least 12 skills, the student is eligible for CE services. There are two MMFs used by the Commission, one for grades K-8 and one for high school.

The last method used to determine eligibility is based upon the classroom teacher’s recommendation. This method requires that the student score no greater than 10 points above the MLP and the classroom teacher feels the student needs the service. Documentation must be produced such as low report card grades, low test scores or poor classroom work.