Search Results

Rutgers EIR: Extending the CS Pipeline Resources for Computer Science Education Access free resources and training for computer science education. Computer science education is more than teaching students to use technology, it's teaching them to create technology and design solutions. In middle school, students can use computer science as a tool for collaborative and creative problem-solving. Students who learn computer science don't just use technology, they create it. The resources in this library have been co-developed with middle school educators across New Jersey and tested and refined through classroom practice and implementation. Below, you can find ready-to-use lesson plans, project publications, practice guides, professional learning, and more! All materials are completely free to download, modify, and use. Extending the CS Pipeline Extending the CS Pipeline is a research project funded by the U.S. Department of Education's Education Innovation and Research (EIR) program. Between 2021 and 2026, education researchers, computer science faculty, and instructional experts partnered with computer science educators across the state to provide high-quality technical assistance. Together, they worked to provide all middle school students access to rigorous and relevant instruction in computer science and related areas. You can learn more about the project and its impact here . Filter by Format(s) Event Archive Lesson Package Practice Guide Publication Tool Video Filter by Topic(s) Artificial Intelligence Classroom Instruction Curriculum Policy & Practice Professional Development Introduction to Physical Computing Practice Guide A Practitioner's Guide to Using CS Curricular Resources Classroom Instruction, Curriculum Practice Guide Organizing a Hackathon: A Quick Guide Classroom Instruction, Curriculum Practice Guide Generative AI: Dos and Don'ts for the Computer Science Classroom Artificial Intelligence Publication Accessible Data Dashboards & Visualizations as Planning Tools Policy & Practice Publication Community-Engaged Pedagogy by Design: Practical Strategies Policy & Practice Event Archive 2022 Rutgers University Computer Science Summit Policy & Practice Video Navigating & Selecting Tools for Distance Education Curriculum Video Computing Concepts: Algorithms & Programming Professional Development Practice Guide Code in Every Class: A Book Club Facilitators' Resource Professional Development Lesson Package Understanding Algorithms with Board Games Classroom Instruction Lesson Package Introduction to Cybersecurity Classroom Instruction Lesson Package Compression & Memory Classroom Instruction Lesson Package Introduction to AI Classroom Instruction, Artificial Intelligence Event Archive 2024 Rutgers University Computer Science Summit Policy & Practice Event Archive AI in K-12 Education: NJ Executive Briefing Artificial Intelligence Video CS Professional Learning: A Ready-To-Use Component Library Professional Development Video Computing Concepts PD - A Four-Part MS Video Series Professional Development Event Archive 2021 Rutgers University Computer Science Summit Policy & Practice Video Computing Concepts PD: Networks & The Internet Professional Development Tool Middle School Introductory Computer Science Curriculum Crosswalk Curriculum Lesson Package Computing Systems WebQuest & Design Classroom Instruction Publication Designing for Translation: Collaborative Learning that Leads to Action Professional Development, Classroom Instruction Lesson Package How Computers Work Classroom Instruction Lesson Package Networks and How the Internet Works Classroom Instruction Tool School Recruitment Resource Packet Policy & Practice Publication Building Computer Science Education Capacity in Middle Schools Policy & Practice Publication Computer Science Teacher Capacity: The Need for Expanded Understanding Policy & Practice Video Computing Concepts PD: Data & Analysis Professional Development Video Computing Concepts PD: Impacts of Computing Professional Development Practice Guide Coded Bias Movie Night Bundle Artificial Intelligence Lesson Package Computing Innovations Infographics Classroom Instruction This project was funded by the U.S. Department of Education (#S411C200084) and approved by the Rutgers University IRB (2020003169).

Developed as part of the Extending the CS Pipeline: Enhancing Rigor and Relevance in Middle School CS Project. This five-to-seven day lesson package introduces middle school students to the foundations of physical computing through hands-on activities using Micro:bits. Throughout the unit, students explore how computers can interact with the physical world through inputs, outputs, sensors, and user interaction. By combining coding with physical devices, students begin developing an understanding of how technology responds to people and environments in real-world systems. Students begin by exploring the components and capabilities of the Micro:bit while learning the basics of physical computing and device interaction. As the unit progresses, students create and test interactive programs, practice debugging and revising code, and examine how algorithms provide step-by-step instructions for solving problems. Through collaborative activities such as the “mystery algorithm” challenge, students compare multiple problem-solving methods while considering concepts like accuracy, efficiency, and constraints in computing systems. The unit culminates in an open-ended creative physical computing project in which students design and build their own Micro:bit-based creation. By the end of the unit, students will have developed foundational coding skills while also strengthening creativity, collaboration, computational thinking, and problem-solving abilities through authentic hands-on learning experiences. This lesson package includes: Lesson Plan & Overview PPT Slides for Classroom Instruction Introduction to Micro:bit - Student Worksheet Code & Create Project - Student Worksheet Physical Computing - Lesson Plan & Overview .pdf Download PDF • 211KB Physical Computing - PPT Slides .pptx Download PPTX • 3.00MB Physical Computing - Introduction to Microbit, Student Worksheet .pdf Download PDF • 294KB Physical Computing - Code & Create Project, Student Worksheet .pdf Download PDF • 87KB Suggested Citation: Center for Effective School Practices. (2026). Introduction to Physical Computing [Lesson Plan Package]. Rutgers University. https://cesp.rutgers.edu/eir-resource-library/introduction-to-physical-computing Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link ⟵ All Resources Introduction to Physical Computing

The BRIDGE Initiative at Rutgers CESP Return to CESP Home Resources Events Blog Support More Zoom & Google Meet: FAQs for SEPAG Leaders RESOURCE DESCRIPTION Digital tools such as Zoom and Google Meet can be extremely helpful for parent leaders, but they can also feel overwhelming without clear, practical guidance. The FAQs below are designed to help you better understand how to use virtual meeting platforms to support your group and make communication and collaboration more manageable, including meeting with parents, connecting with district leaders, and hosting virtual SEPAG meetings. By making these tools more accessible, the goal is to reduce barriers, increase confidence, and help you engage more effectively with your school community. Topics: SEPAG Development, SEPAG Formation Best For: SEPAG Leaders (District), SEPAG Leaders (Parents) < BACK TO RESOURCES V1.0; last updated May 21st, 2026 Zoom for Virtual & Hybrid Meetings Many SEPAG leaders use Zoom to host virtual meetings, connect with families, and collaborate with district leaders. While Zoom can be a helpful tool, its settings and features can feel confusing at first. Expand the FAQs below to troubleshoot common issues and learn more about setting up and managing Zoom meetings for your group. Getting Started What is Zoom, and how is it different from Google Meet? Zoom is a virtual meeting platform that allows you to host online meetings, share your screen, and communicate with participants. If you are familiar with Google Meet, Zoom works in a similar way, but it has more built-in settings and controls especially for managing participants, security, and presentations. Do I need a Zoom account to join or host a meeting? To join a meeting: No account is required To host or schedule a meeting: You will need to create a free Zoom account Do I need to download Zoom, or can I just use it in a web browser? You can join a meeting using your web browser, but Zoom works best if you download the app. Recommendation: For hosts (running meetings): Download the Zoom app For participants: Browser is usually fine, but the app is easier Should I set up meetings in the app or on the web portal? You can do either, but the web portal ( zoom.us ) is often easier for setting up meetings and adjusting settings. You will also be able to see the full list of settings which is not always accessible in the app itself. Recommendation: The web portal ( zoom.us ) is best for setting up meetings and managing settings. The app is best for running the meeting How do I schedule a Zoom meeting? Log into your Zoom account through the app or website (preferred method) Click Schedule Add your meeting details (date, time, title) Leave registration unchecked, unless you are hosting an invite-only event. If checked, it will require all participants to register in advance of the meeting. Only then will they be sent the zoom link to join. You have the option to enable the waiting room here as well. If you forget when scheduling the meeting, you can always enable it in settings later and can toggle it during your meeting as well. If you have co-leaders or presenters who will need more access to features (like screen sharing and letting people in from the waiting room), you can add them as "alternative hosts". This may be slightly hidden under an "options" tab at the bottom of the meeting scheduling page on the zoom website. Save the meeting After scheduling: Zoom will automatically create a meeting link to share (unless you enabled registration) Copy the Zoom link provided Share it with your group! Hosting a Meeting How do I start a scheduled Zoom meeting? Open Zoom Go to Meetings Click Start next to your scheduled meeting How do I let people into a meeting? If you have the waiting room turned on: Participants will appear in a waiting room list Click on admin tools Click on waiting room The waiting room will show up on the right side of the screen Click Admit to let them into the meeting If the waiting room is not enabled, people can join anytime after the event is scheduled to start without you having to do anything. Recommendation: For virtual-only meetings, enable the waiting room feature to have greater control over who joins. If you are meeting in a hybrid format, make sure someone is assigned to monitor the Zoom during the meeting. Participants may drop off, rejoin, or arrive late, and they can easily be overlooked if the focus is only on those attending in person. How can I remove someone from a meeting? Click Participants on the bottom of the screen Find the person’s name Click More Select Remove Note: as an admin you can also rename people in the same settings area within "more". How can I record a meeting? Click the Record button during the meeting You have the option of recording to your computer, or to the Zoom Cloud. This can be configured within the main Zoom settings. Choose where to save the recording Recommendation: Record presentations or guest speakers only Avoid recording open SEPAG discussions to protect privacy and encourage open sharing. How do I share my screen (for slides, documents, videos, etc.)? Click Share Screen Select what you want to share (slides, document, etc.) Click Share How do I control who can share their screen? During the meeting, click the arrow next to Share Screen Choose who can share (this can also be configured in settings prior to your meeting) Host only (recommended for general meetings) All participants (recommended only if others are needed to share their screens) How do I make someone a co-host? To make someone a co-host: Open participants Find their name Click more --> make co-host A co-host can help admit participants from the waiting room and they can manage chat or screen sharing. This is especially helpful if you are running a larger meeting or virtual event. How do I message someone during a meeting? Click on participants on the bottom of your screen. Then, use the dropdown in the chat box (which will appear on the right of the meeting screen) to choose: Everyone Or, a specific attendee Note: as an admin you have the option of having zoom save and download the chat after a meeting. This can be helpful especially if you have parents asking questions that you don't want to forget during your meeting. This can be configured in settings (choose "in meeting --> basic"). Google Meet for Virtual & Hybrid Meetings Getting Started What is Google Meet? Google Meet is a virtual meeting platform created by Google. It allows you to host online meetings, share your screen, use chat, and communicate with participants. Google Meet works especially well if your group already uses: Gmail Google Calendar Google Drive Google Classroom How is Google Meet different from Zoom? Google Meet and Zoom are very similar, but there are a few differences: Google Meet is more closely connected to Google tools like Gmail and Calendar Zoom has more built-in meeting controls and settings Many people find Google Meet simpler to use at first Do I need a Google account to join or host a meeting? To join a meeting: Usually no, as long as the host allows guest access To host or schedule a meeting: Yes, you will need a Google account Do I need to download anything? No. Google Meet works directly in your web browser. You can also download the Google Meet app on: Phones Tablets For most people, using Meet in the browser is easiest when using a computer. Using the app is typically easier for phones and tablets. How do I schedule a Google Meet? Open Google Calendar Click Create Add your meeting title, date, and time Click Add Google Meet video conferencing Save the event Google will automatically create a meeting link which you can copy and share. Hosting a Meeting How do I start a scheduled Google Meet? You can start a meeting by: Opening the Google Calendar event and clicking Join with Google Meet Or opening meet.google.com and selecting your meeting How do I let people into a meeting? If guest access controls are enabled: Participants may need to request to join You will see a popup asking you to admit them Click Admit to allow them into the meeting Recommendation: For public-facing SEPAG meetings, monitor who is joining especially if the meeting link is shared widely. How do I remove someone from a meeting? Open the Participants panel Find the person’s name Click More options Select Remove from the meeting How do I share my screen (for slides, documents, videos, etc.)? Click Present now Choose: Your entire screen A window A browser tab Select what you want to share Click Share How do I control who can share their screen? Google Meet allows hosts to control who can present during a meeting. To adjust screen sharing permissions: Open Host controls during the meeting Look for the screen sharing or presentation settings Choose whether participants can share their screen Recommendation: For general SEPAG meetings, limit screen sharing to hosts or presenters only Allow participant sharing only when needed for collaboration or presentations This can help prevent interruptions or accidental screen sharing during meetings. How can I record a meeting? Some Google Meet accounts include recording features, while others do not. Recording availability often depends on the type of Google account you are using (personal, school, or organization account). To record a meeting: During the meeting, click Activities Select Recording Click Start recording When the meeting ends, the recording will usually be saved automatically to Google Drive and shared with the meeting organizer. Recommendation: Record presentations or guest speakers only Avoid recording open SEPAG discussions to protect privacy and encourage open sharing How do I make someone a co-host? Depending on your Google account type, this feature may be called: Co-host Host management Meeting moderation controls To make someone a co-host: Open the Participants or People panel Find the person’s name Click More options Select Add as co-host (if available) A co-host can help admit participants from the waiting room and they can manage chat or screen sharing. This is especially helpful if you are running a larger meeting or virtual event. How do I message someone during a meeting? Click the Chat icon during the meeting Type your message in the chat box Press Enter to send Depending on your meeting settings, you may be able to: Send a message to everyone Or send a direct message to a specific participant SHARE THIS RESOURCE Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The BRIDGE Initiative is funded by the NJ Department of Education Office of Special Education (Engagement of Parents of Students with Disabilities; Grant #26000007) through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA-B; 84.027A). Rutgers is an equal access/equal opportunity institution. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to direct suggestions, comments, or complaints concerning any accessibility issues with Rutgers websites to accessibility@rutgers.edu or complete the Report Accessibility Barrier / Provide Feedback Form . Copyright 2025 Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey

The BRIDGE Portal is an online library of high-quality materials and training for parents and educators around meaningful parent engagement in special education. The BRIDGE Initiative at Rutgers CESP Return to CESP Home Resources Events Blog Support More Resource Portal FILTER RESOURCES Resource Area All Home Reinforcement NJTSS SEPAGs Type Activity Brief Guide Office Hour One-Pager Tech Help Templates Webinar Audience Educators Parents/Caregivers SEPAG Leaders (District) SEPAG Leaders (Parents) Topic Home Activities Literacy Support NJTSS Parent Engagement Reference SEPAG Development SEPAG Formation SEPAG-District Collaboration Language English Spanish Office Hour SEPAG Support Office Hours: Upon Request Informal conversations to ask questions, brainstorm, and plan next steps together. Brief Family Brief: Reading is Everywhere Learn to recognize reading challenges hiding behind struggles in math, science, and beyond. Brief Family Brief: How Kids Learn to Read What the science of reading tells us about how children learn to read. Templates SEPAG Outreach for District Leaders Materials for districts to engage parents in SEPAG events and leadership opportunities. Activity, Guide Home Reinforcement Guide: Reading Comprehension Simple before, during, and after strategies to support your child's reading comprehension. Brief Family Brief: Choosing The Right Book How to tell whether a book is too hard, too easy, or just right. One-Pager What is a SEPAG? A one-pager to help you and others learn what SEPAGs are and why they matter. Tech Help Designing with Canva: FAQs for SEPAG Leaders Frequently asked questions about using Canva to support your SEPAG. One-Pager What is NJTSS? A Family Reference Sheet What the three tiers mean, how screening and progress monitoring work, and how families fit in Guide NJDOE Young Readers and Writers Family Guides (K-3) One-page guides with vocabulary, reading milestones, and at-home activities for each grade. Activity, Guide Home Reinforcement Guide: Everyday Literacy Moments Four strategies for turning everyday moments into reading and language learning opportunities. Templates SEPAG Outreach for Parent Leaders Ready-to-use materials for parent leaders to promote their group and encourage participation. 1 2 1 ... 1 2 ... 2 The BRIDGE Initiative is funded by the NJ Department of Education Office of Special Education (Engagement of Parents of Students with Disabilities; Grant #26000007) through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA-B; 84.027A). Rutgers is an equal access/equal opportunity institution. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to direct suggestions, comments, or complaints concerning any accessibility issues with Rutgers websites to accessibility@rutgers.edu or complete the Report Accessibility Barrier / Provide Feedback Form . Copyright 2025 Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey

The BRIDGE Initiative offers a free, statewide portal with plain-language tools, training, and partnerships that help families and schools collaborate on IEPs, inclusion, literacy, and NJTSS. The BRIDGE Initiative at Rutgers CESP Return to CESP Home Resources Events Blog Support More The BRIDGE Initiative Helping Families and Schools Work Together ABOUT THE BRIDGE INITIATIVE Engagement of Parents of Students with Disabilities The Building Resources for Inclusive Development and Growth in Education (BRIDGE) Initiative is a new partnership between Rutgers University and the NJ Department of Education Office of Special Education. It promotes strong partnerships between families and schools to help students with disabilities make steady progress towards their learning goals. The BRIDGE Initiative's work is centered around: SEPAG Development, Improvement, and Sustainability Family and School Literacy Partnerships NJTSS Understanding and Home Support There are many resources about special education and family engagement, but it can be hard to know what you need, what to trust, and how to use it. BRIDGE brings the best materials together in one place. Our team curates, creates, and organizes high-quality resources so you can easily find what works and get support in putting it to practice. UPCOMING EVENTS Join us for upcoming webinars, workshops, and learning opportunities. BRIDGE events bring together families, educators, and district leaders to share strategies, build connections, and strengthen support for students across New Jersey. See All Events Jun 2, 2026 Supporting SEPAGs: Practical Guidance for District Leaders OUR MAJOR FOCUS AREAS SEPAG Development, Growth, and Sustainability Special Education Parent Advisory Groups (SEPAGs) give families a direct way to learn, connect, and collaborate around the programs, policies, and services that affect students with disabilities. The BRIDGE Initiative provides support to both district and parent group leaders and makes free resources available online. QUICK ACCESS Join Our Mailing List Follow us on X Book a SEPAG Office Hour See Upcoming Events Access Free Resources FEATURED RESOURCES Explore guides, toolkits, and strategies designed to support families and educators. Our resources provide practical information on special education, SEPAGs, literacy, NJTSS, and family engagement that you can use right away. Resource Library One-Pager What is a SEPAG? Guide SEPAG Development Parent Starter Kit Webinar SEPAG Leaders: Connect, Share, & Grow! FROM THE BLOG Mental Health Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day: Moving from Awareness to Action Special Education Meaningful Supports for Students with ASD SEPAGs Understanding SEPAGs: A Simple Guide for Parents and Communities SEPAGs The Power of Partnership: Why SEPAGs Matter in Special Education FEATURED OPPORTUNITIES For SEPAGs : Direct Support & Training The BRIDGE Initiative provides assistance to parent and district-affiliated SEPAG leaders including leadership training, meeting planning and facilitation, resource development, and strategies for growing membership. We also work to cultivate and support parent leadership opportunities within groups. The BRIDGE Initiative is funded by the NJ Department of Education Office of Special Education (Engagement of Parents of Students with Disabilities; Grant #26000007) through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA-B; 84.027A). Rutgers is an equal access/equal opportunity institution. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to direct suggestions, comments, or complaints concerning any accessibility issues with Rutgers websites to accessibility@rutgers.edu or complete the Report Accessibility Barrier / Provide Feedback Form . Copyright 2025 Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey

The BRIDGE Initiative at Rutgers CESP Return to CESP Home Resources Events Blog Support More Designing with Canva: FAQs for SEPAG Leaders RESOURCE DESCRIPTION Digital tools such as Canva can be extremely helpful for parent leaders, but they can also feel overwhelming without clear, practical guidance. The FAQs below are designed to help you better understand how to use Canva to support your group and make common tasks more manageable, including creating and sharing materials for meetings, events, and outreach. By making these tools more accessible, the goal is to reduce barriers, increase confidence, and help you engage more effectively with your school community. Topics: SEPAG Development, SEPAG Formation Best For: SEPAG Leaders (District), SEPAG Leaders (Parents) < BACK TO RESOURCES V1.0; last updated April 13th, 2026 What is Canva? Canva is a free, online design tool that allows you to create flyers, social media posts, and other visual materials using pre-made templates. Once you learn the basics, you can use the platform to individualize your group’s marketing and design more attractive, engaging social media content. Getting Started with Canva How is Canva different from Google Docs or Microsoft Word? Unlike Google Docs or Word which are mainly for writing documents, Canva is designed for visual layouts. That means: You can easily move text and images around Designs are already formatted for flyers and social media posts It’s much easier to make something that looks polished and professional Do I need to create an account to use a template? Yes, you will need to create a free Canva account to edit and save your work. You can sign up using: Your email A Google account Or another login option Do I need to pay for it? No, Canva has a free version that includes everything you need to edit our templates. There is a paid version (Canva Pro), but it is not required. If you are a K–12 teacher or work in a school, you are eligible for a free Canva for Education account, which includes additional “pro” features ( canva.com/education ) How do I open a template? Click the template link shared with you or one provided on the BRIDGE Resource Portal It will open in Canva Click “Use template” or “Edit design” This will create your own copy that you can edit. Can I use Canva on my phone, or do I need a computer? You can use Canva on: A computer (recommended), easier for editing A phone or tablet, but it may feel a little harder to navigate If possible, BRIDGE recommends using a computer for your first few times. Should I download the desktop app? Or can I just use it on the browser? You can do everything you need in your web browser (like Chrome, Safari, or Edge). No download is required. Editing Basics How do I change the text (date, time, location, event name)? Double click directly on the text you want to change Start typing to replace it Use the top toolbar to adjust size, font, or color if needed Tip: If you make a mistake, you can always click Undo. Can I change the colors or fonts? Absolutely! We recommend doing this carefully to keep the design clear and professional. You can: Change text color using the color tool Select a different font from the top menu Why can’t I click on certain parts of the design? Some parts of the design may have been “locked” by the original creator so they don’t move accidentally. If you can’t click something: It may be a background or locked element Try clicking around it to find the editable text or imageYou have the option to lock an entire page, or just specific items. Clicking an item will display a lock icon. Toggle this to lock or unlock the specific item. Check the top of the page itself for the same lock icon. Toggle this to lock or unlock the whole page. I made a mistake, how do I undo it? Click the Undo arrow at the top of the screen. You can click it multiple times to go back step-by-step. Working with Images & Logos How do I add our district or SEPAG logo? Click Uploads on the left menu Click Upload files and select your logo Drag the logo onto your design Alternatively, you can also drag or copy/paste an image from your computer directly onto your design. It will then be automatically added to your uploads folder in Canva. How do I resize or crop an image? Click the image Drag the corners to resize Click Crop (top menu) to adjust what part of the image shows Using Canva Templates What parts of the template can I change? We invite you to add your group’s specifics to any of our templates! To make them your own you should change: Event name Date, time, and location Contact information Colors (to match your district’s and/or group's) Any specific details for your SEPAG How do I make a copy of a design for a new event? Open your design Click File (top left) --> Make a copy Alternatively, you can also click duplicate page above your document (top right) to make a copy of your current work inside the same Canva document. This is often easier especially for flyers you will be re-using multiple times and only tweaking (e.g. meeting announcements). Will I mess up the BRIDGE template if I edit it? Nope! You are working on your own copy. The original template shared by BRIDGE will not be changed. Saving, Downloading, & Sharing How do I save my work? Canva automatically saves your work as you go, so you do not need to click a save button. How do I download something to export? Click Share (top right) Click Download Choose your desired export type (Image like JPEG/PNG, or PDF) Click Download What file type should I choose to export? PDF (Print) - Best for printing Use this if you are printing flyers or handouts Keeps text sharp and clear Best quality for printers PNG - Best for sharing online (higher quality) Great for posting on social media or sending digitally Higher quality than JPG (clearer text and images) Good choice if you want your design to look crisp JPG (or JPEG) - Smaller file size Also works for social media and email File size is smaller (easier to send) Slightly lower quality than PNG Simple rule to remember: Printing --> PDF (Print) Sharing online --> PNG or JPG (choose PNG if you want higher quality) How can I share this with other parents? Download the file and email it or post on social media Share it in a parent group (Facebook, WhatsApp, etc.) Print copies to distribute at events or hang up at school SHARE THIS RESOURCE Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The BRIDGE Initiative is funded by the NJ Department of Education Office of Special Education (Engagement of Parents of Students with Disabilities; Grant #26000007) through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA-B; 84.027A). Rutgers is an equal access/equal opportunity institution. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to direct suggestions, comments, or complaints concerning any accessibility issues with Rutgers websites to accessibility@rutgers.edu or complete the Report Accessibility Barrier / Provide Feedback Form . Copyright 2025 Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey

The BRIDGE Initiative at Rutgers CESP Return to CESP Home Resources Events Blog Support More Family Brief: Reading is Everywhere RESOURCE DESCRIPTION This brief helps families understand that reading is a demand in every subject, not just ELA, and that reading challenges can look like subject-area problems rather than reading problems. It explains the shift from learning to read in early grades to reading to learn in grades 4 and beyond, and walks through how reading difficulties show up differently in math, science, social studies, and electives. Families will find guidance on what to observe, how to document patterns, and what specific questions to bring to teachers and IEP meetings. Topics: Literacy Support Best For: Parents/Caregivers < BACK TO RESOURCES V1.0; last updated May 3, 2026 Click Here to Download SHARE THIS RESOURCE Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The BRIDGE Initiative is funded by the NJ Department of Education Office of Special Education (Engagement of Parents of Students with Disabilities; Grant #26000007) through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA-B; 84.027A). Rutgers is an equal access/equal opportunity institution. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to direct suggestions, comments, or complaints concerning any accessibility issues with Rutgers websites to accessibility@rutgers.edu or complete the Report Accessibility Barrier / Provide Feedback Form . Copyright 2025 Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey

The BRIDGE Initiative at Rutgers CESP Return to CESP Home Resources Events Blog Support More Home Reinforcement Guide: Everyday Literacy Moments RESOURCE DESCRIPTION This resource shows families how ordinary activities like driving, grocery shopping, and dinner conversations can become meaningful learning opportunities. It introduces four strategies caregivers can use without any lesson plan or special materials: building vocabulary through wordplay, encouraging curiosity through questioning, engaging with real-world text, and using conversation to practice storytelling and explanation. Each strategy includes simple steps and practical tips that follow a child's natural interests and fit into the flow of daily life. Topics: Home Activities, Literacy Support Best For: Parents/Caregivers < BACK TO RESOURCES V1.0; last updated May 3, 2026 Click Here to Download SHARE THIS RESOURCE Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The BRIDGE Initiative is funded by the NJ Department of Education Office of Special Education (Engagement of Parents of Students with Disabilities; Grant #26000007) through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA-B; 84.027A). Rutgers is an equal access/equal opportunity institution. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to direct suggestions, comments, or complaints concerning any accessibility issues with Rutgers websites to accessibility@rutgers.edu or complete the Report Accessibility Barrier / Provide Feedback Form . Copyright 2025 Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey

The BRIDGE Initiative at Rutgers CESP Return to CESP Home Resources Events Blog Support More Home Reinforcement Guide: Reading Comprehension RESOURCE DESCRIPTION This resource gives parents and caregivers of students in grades 4 through 12 practical strategies for supporting reading comprehension at home. It walks families through three phases of a reading session: previewing the text, checking in while reading, and summarizing afterward. Each phase includes concrete steps and example conversation starters that require no teaching experience to use. The guide is especially useful for children who struggle to understand or talk about what they read, and fits into about 30 minutes of shared reading time. Topics: Home Activities, Literacy Support Best For: Parents/Caregivers < BACK TO RESOURCES V1.0; last updated May 3, 2026 Click Here to Download SHARE THIS RESOURCE Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The BRIDGE Initiative is funded by the NJ Department of Education Office of Special Education (Engagement of Parents of Students with Disabilities; Grant #26000007) through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA-B; 84.027A). Rutgers is an equal access/equal opportunity institution. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to direct suggestions, comments, or complaints concerning any accessibility issues with Rutgers websites to accessibility@rutgers.edu or complete the Report Accessibility Barrier / Provide Feedback Form . Copyright 2025 Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey

The BRIDGE Initiative at Rutgers CESP Return to CESP Home Resources Events Blog Support More SEPAG Support Office Hours: Upon Request RESOURCE DESCRIPTION Need support, ideas, or just a sounding board? Being a SEPAG leader can feel isolating at times, and these sessions are here to provide connection and support. Office Hours are informal, open conversations where you can get support with whatever you need—planning meetings, creating materials, brainstorming, or working through challenges. Topics: Parent Engagement, SEPAG Development, SEPAG Formation, SEPAG-District Collaboration Best For: SEPAG Leaders (District), SEPAG Leaders (Parents) < BACK TO RESOURCES Others have used SEPAG Support Office Hours to: Learn what a SEPAG is and how it can support your community Brainstorm engaging meeting topics Discuss how to strengthen parent engagement and overall participation Create or refine flyers and other outreach materials Get personalized guidance from the BRIDGE team To request an office hour, click the link below to send a note to our team with your contact info and a bit about your current situation. As always, this is a free service offered as part of the BRIDGE initiative. We look forward to connecting with you! Click to Request a SEPAG Support Office Hour SHARE THIS RESOURCE Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The BRIDGE Initiative is funded by the NJ Department of Education Office of Special Education (Engagement of Parents of Students with Disabilities; Grant #26000007) through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA-B; 84.027A). Rutgers is an equal access/equal opportunity institution. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to direct suggestions, comments, or complaints concerning any accessibility issues with Rutgers websites to accessibility@rutgers.edu or complete the Report Accessibility Barrier / Provide Feedback Form . Copyright 2025 Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey