Rapid advancements in technology and subsequent changes in the economy have created opportunities for individuals to compete and connect on a global scale. In this increasingly diverse and complex world, the successful entrepreneur or employee must not only possess the requisite education for specific industry pathways but also employability skills necessary to collaborate with others and manage resources effectively in order to establish and maintain stability and independence. This document outlines concepts and skills necessary for New Jersey’s students to thrive in an ever-changing world. Intended for integration throughout all K–12 academic and technical content areas, the New Jersey Student Learning Standards- Career Readiness, Life Literacies, and Key Skills (NJSLS-CLKS) provides the framework for students to learn the concepts, skills, and practices essential to the successful navigation of career exploration and preparation, personal finances and digital literacy.

Career readiness, life literacies, and key skills education provides students with the necessary skills to make informed career and financial decisions,engage as responsible community members in a digital society, and to successfully meet the challenges and opportunities in an interconnected global economy.

An education in career readiness, life literacies, and key skills fosters a population that:

• Continually self-reflects and seeks to improve the essential life and career practices that lead to success;

• Uses effective communication and collaboration skills and resources to interact with a global society;

• Possesses financial literacy and responsibility at home and in the broader community;

• Plans, executes, and alters career goals in response to changing societal and economic conditions; and

• Seeks to attain skill and content mastery to achieve success in a chosen career path.

New Jersey Department of Education June 2020

These standards are embedded throughout all of our programs and curriculum in all content areas. At the high school level, students have a list of electives to choose from to meet the required number of credits for graduation.