Wake Up Call NJ, a non-profit education advocacy group, has launched a major advertising campaign across New Jersey to raise awareness about the state’s public schools. Founded by Laura Overdeck and Peter Shulman, the campaign aims to alert citizens, parents, and taxpayers about the challenges facing schools and increase the demand for transparency.
Peter Shulman, co-founder of the organization, expressed concern over public misconceptions about New Jersey’s education system. He explained, “Many people believe New Jersey’s schools are performing well. Parents see their children getting As and Bs, but state data shows that in many districts, even the ‘good’ ones, up to half of students are not meeting grade-level expectations.”
Overdeck, known for her work on children’s math books and an upcoming film about robotics, has long been troubled by the state’s declining math scores. “When more than half of our fourth graders are struggling with math, and many of them never catch up, how can we expect good grades and high graduation rates?” she said. “The problem isn’t with the people; it’s the system. Many parents don’t know the real academic situation their children are facing.”
The first phase of the campaign focuses on the gaps in student achievement. The ads, which can be viewed online, highlight these issues. Overdeck stressed, “It’s time for everyone in New Jersey—parents, grandparents, and taxpayers—to understand that our children are not learning as much as we are led to believe. Without awareness, change will never happen.”
The campaign will be seen on billboards, in train stations, and across various media platforms, including social media. Additional ads will be released throughout the spring to continue engaging the public.
Shulman added, “We are working to create a space where concerned citizens can access school performance data, understand the issues, and learn how to engage with their child’s school.” The campaign also includes a website, wakeupcallnj.com, to provide more information.
“We’re committed to bringing about change in New Jersey,” Shulman concluded. “We can fix this, but it will take all of us working together.”
Wake Up Call was co-founded by Overdeck, president of Bedtime Math and co-founder of the New Jersey Tutoring Corps, and Shulman, a former deputy commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Education. The group’s effort is supported by a wide range of voices, including teachers, parents, and political leaders from all parties.
