In 2021, more than 100,000 young people disconnected from education in New Jersey
Disconnection can determine a young person’s future and the entire trajectory of his or her family’s life.
Youth Disconnection
The economic and social impact are not consigned to a singular geographic region or racial/ethnic group; in New Jersey, youth disconnection rates are high across all counties and racial and ethnic groups. In fact, the highest per capita rate of youth disconnection is in rural Cumberland County where 23% of 16 to 24 year olds are neither in school, nor working. Essex County has the second highest rate of disconnection at 17% of young people.
Source: njpp.org/publications/state-of-opportunity-index/
YOUNG PEOPLE
ARE THE GREATEST
UNTAPPED RESOURCE
All young people can contribute to our society's economic and social landscape if provided with the tools and support needed to succeed. The NJ OY Coalition works to take action to ensure there is a systematic buildout of viable pathways to post-secondary success that allow all New Jersey young people to realize their full potential.
ACTION SPOTLIGHTS
FEATURED WORK
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Prevention School Disconnection in NJ: A Challenge We Cannot Afford to Ignore
Read Newark Opportunity Youth Network’s policy brief on the issue of disconnection and how it impacts all communities throughout New Jersey.
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A Portrait of Newark
Read Measure of America and Newark Opportunity Youth Network’s report which paints a picture of well-being and access to opportunity, and the state of youth disconnection in Newark today.
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Newark Youth Voices Portal
Explore the findings of Youth Advocates’ community listening project through their interactive portal “Youth Speak for Themselves: Revolutionizing the Quality of Education in Newark.”
TESTIMONY
Youth Advocate support of state funding for New Jersey YouthBuild programs.
Youth Advocate support of ensuring disconnection prevention and reengagement takes place for students in New Jersey.
Member organization support of state funding for New Jersey YouthBuild programs.
Stay Informed.
Stay Engaged.
BECOME AN OY ADVOCATE
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