Frequently Asked Questions
Is the study of a world language(s) required in the State of New Jersey?
Yes, in New Jersey, the study of world languages in public schools is required from grades K through 8. There is also a five-credit high school graduation requirement. Districts are responsible for program implementation, selection of language(s) to be offered in their program, and reporting of student outcomes. Click here to read more about the requirements for world language program implementation in NJ.
What is the current status of K-8 world languages program implementation in New Jersey public schools?
Public schools throughout New Jersey are in different stages of the implementation process. Click here to read the 2005 Report on the State of World Languages Implementation in New Jersey.
What if a K-8 world language program is not offered in a public school district?
Parents and others should first contact the school principal or district superintendent to inquire why a world languages program is not part of the elementary school curriculum. If a satisfactory answer is not received, the County Superintendent of Schools should then be contacted. The State Coordinator of World Languages is another resource.
What if I want my child to study a world language for high school credit that is not offered in his/her high school?
For languages not offered in public schools, there are procedures for approval of instructional programs provided by other organizations.
Are there specific curriculum and instructional guidelines?
While methodologies and curriculum are flexible, N.J.A.C. 6A:8-3.1: requires districts to “ensure that curriculum and instruction are delivered in such a way that all students are able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills specified by the Core Curriculum Content Standards.” Click here to read more about the requirements for curriculum and instruction.
What are the New Jersey Curriculum Standards for World Languages?
The New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards for World Languages is one of nine content area standards that make up the state core curriculum. The standards clearly define what students should know and be able to do in world languages at specific benchmark grade levels. They were created to improve student achievement in world language education. New Jersey has two standards that focus on Communication and Culture. Click here to read about the New Jersey Curriculum Standards for World Languages.
The national Standards for Foreign Language Learning in the 21st Century are available from The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) website:
Click here to purchase the national Standards for Foreign Language Learning in the 21st Century book.
Are there resources available to help educators implement the 2009 New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards?
Yes, Click here for a searchable data base.
I am looking for a job/want to post a job.
You may do so at NJ Hire.
For jobs at the national level, visit ACTFL’s Job Central.
What are the requirements to teach world languages in New Jersey’s public schools?
Visit www.state.nj.us scroll down the page and click on the section entitled: Licensing Regulations Impacting World Languages.
How can I find about grants for world language programs?
New Jersey schools can apply for federal grants from the US Department of Education.
I want to learn more about international education in New Jersey.
The NJ Department of Education is actively involved in advancing international education in the state. Click here to learn about international education initiatives in NJ.
What are the current high school graduation requirements for world languages?
Students may fulfill the state minimum five-credit high school graduation requirement for world languages through a seat-time instructional program or by successfully completing a proficiency/competency-based exit test. The department offers guidelines on selecting proficiency assessments that may be used by districts. For additional information, contact Cheri Quinlan, NJ DOE Coordinator of World Languages, International Education and Gifted and Talented at cheri.quinlan@doe.state.nj.us.
Do you want to suggest an important question for the FAQ section?
Please send your request to Ana Lomba at ana@analomba.com