Wells Winegar, Executive Director of NJPI, released the following statement:

“Dr. Laux’s background reflects a strong focus on student outcomes, literacy, and practical reforms that improve learning regardless of ZIP code. Her experience redesigning assessment systems, expanding instructional supports, and advancing targeted interventions aligns closely with Governor-elect Sherrill’s emphasis on smart investments and measurable progress for students.

“New Jersey enters this next chapter at an important inflection point. For too long, education policy has prioritized process over results and system stability over student achievement. Dr. Laux’s appointment presents a meaningful opportunity to reset expectations and refocus the system on outcomes, transparency, and accountability, placing students, not institutions, at the center of decision-making.

“NJPI looks forward to engaging with Commissioner-designate Laux on pragmatic ways to expand educational opportunity, including renewed attention to New Jersey’s Interdistrict School Choice Program. With the program largely frozen for more than a decade due to cost concerns, NJPI has been developing and advancing revenue-neutral models that would allow the state to grow school choice at scale without increasing the overall education budget. We stand ready to work with the Department of Education to help identify solutions that are fiscally responsible, operationally feasible, and responsive to family demand.

“This moment also presents an opportunity to reengage on thoughtful charter school growth, particularly now that legislators have added new controls and oversight. When paired with clear accountability and outcome expectations, charter schools can play an important role in expanding access to high-quality options for families.

“Finally, NJPI encourages a renewed emphasis on the role of school boards in driving academic improvement. Strategic plans should include clear, measurable student outcome goals, and the training of new board members should be strengthened to focus on academic performance, data-informed decision-making, and effective implementation—not simply procedural compliance.

“NJPI looks forward to working with Dr. Laux and the Sherrill administration to help ensure New Jersey’s education system is judged by what matters most: whether students are learning, improving, and prepared for the future.”

About The New Jersey Policy Institute:

The New Jersey Policy Institute is a 501(c)3 nonpartisan research and education organization dedicated to advancing data-driven solutions that improve governance, accountability, and outcomes across the Garden State.