Next Generation Support Program

April 2023 Update

January 2023 Update

Middletown Partners with Bright Connections to Provide Free Tutoring to Students Impacted by COVID-19

For Immediate Release

January 13, 2023

MIDDLETOWN, NJ – Middletown Township will be providing free tutoring services in core subjects through the Next Generation Support Program for residents enrolled in elementary school through high school beginning Saturday, January 21^st.  

The Next Generation Support Program was created to help students who suffered from learning loss during the COVID-19 pandemic. Parents who filled out the initial survey last summer had the opportunity to have their children assessed to see if they would qualify for the tutoring program. Over 250 students were assessed by Bright Connections Tutoring Center in Lincroft in both reading and math. After assessments were complete, the organization reviewed all the evaluations and created small groups based on students’ reading levels, areas of growth, and grade levels.

“Over the last year, the Township Committee and I have been raising awareness about the desperate need for Middletown and governments at every level to address the often overlooked and underreported effect the pandemic had on our students,” said Mayor Tony Perry. “The Township opted to dedicate funds from the American Rescue Plan to execute the Next Generation Support Program so our students can receive the necessary support to supplement their education and get them back on track.” 

The tutoring program will run for six weeks in the Community Room at the Middletown Township Public Library (55 New Monmouth Road). Each session will be an hour-and-a-half long. Lessons will follow the New Jersey Student Learning Standards and be created differently for each group based on areas of concern found in the assessments. Students in grades K-8 will receive math and language arts instruction during each tutoring session. Students in high school will receive math instruction. In addition, parents will receive updates after each session about what their child worked on and what work can be continued at home.

“I am honored to partner with Middletown Township for the Next Generation Support Program,” said Jennifer Wetjen, owner of Bright Connections Tutoring Center. “This tutoring program was created to help support students impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, both academically and emotionally, by increasing their self-esteem. These children are our future and we must continue investing in them and providing them with opportunities to catch up and feel that anything is possible.”