Board hears proposed 2025 updates to computer science, world language and arts standards

Department staff presented the second set of 2025 New Jersey Student Learning Standards revisions covering Computer Science Innovation and Society (CSIS), World Languages, and Visual & Performing Arts.

Staff explained the proposed changes aim to modernize the standards and improve coherence across grades. The renamed Computer Science Innovation and Society (CSIS) consolidates prior computer science and design-thinking standards and integrates artificial intelligence literacy across domains. The department said CSIS organizes learning into three domains — computer science, engineering design and technology, and digital literacy — and seeks to make AI and ethical evaluation part of K–12 progression.

Staff described the world language revisions as reorganizing performance expectations into strands that pair modes of communication (interpretive, interpersonal, presentational) with two purposes: intercultural competence and literacy. For visual and performing arts, expert committees recommended streamlining performance expectations to focus on foundational content, improving vertical alignment, and clarifying language to support classroom implementation.

Officials emphasized equity and developmental appropriateness, noting K–2 standards allow unplugged and hands-on approaches, and that committees included educators from urban, suburban and rural districts and multiple disciplines. The department also outlined an implementation timeline and said additional public comment and stakeholder feedback will be used to refine the final language prior to adoption.

Next steps: staff will take public feedback, continue committee work, and return with final proposals for future board consideration and possible adoption phases.