Trenton: Schools are struggling so Let’s Cut State Funding
Trenton has caused a massive slash to many schools creating devastating budget cuts that will impact 137 school districts in the 2024/2025 school year. District leaders pinpoint the root cause of the financial crisis as a state funding formula known as S-2, which has been reallocated money
Washington Twp (Gloucester County)
Like other districts, Washington Township suffered with losses over time that amounted to $9 Million dollars since the 2015/2016 school year. With contractual salary increases, rising health benefits, and substantial out-of-district tuition costs, the district has no other choice than to make drastic reduction in staff.
It makes one wonder where the NJEA is for the advocacy of these positions?
Red Bank, Long Branch, Asbury Park and Neptune districts (Monmouth County)
The towns in Vin Gopal’s district will take a devastating hit in funding for the 2024/2025 school year. All of these schools lost a total in $16 Million dollars in state aid. The funding formula that caused this mess is being questioned by the district representatives.
Cherry Hill (Camden County)
Cherry Hill lost $6.7 dollars in state aid but is waiting to see what legislative solutions that the State Senate will have before it makes any budget decisions for next year.
Trenton’s Solution: RAISE TAXES
Bill A4161 was passed in the assembly (52-20 margin) to remove the need for voter approval for districts that had a decrease in state aid at any time over the past 5 years. Which is most districts in the suburbs of NJ. School property can now be raised 9.9% without a public vote. This is a pretty horrifying solution to taxpayers since we are already are named the state with the highest property taxes.
What can you do?
If your schools are one of the 137 schools this year that had massive budget cuts for next year, you need to make your voice heard directly. Call and email Governor Murphy. Express your concerns about the budget cuts in your school, the impact on our children’s education, and the need for fair distribution of resources. Every call and email counts.
Contact Governor Phil Murphy:
· Email: [email protected]
· Phone: (609) 292-6000
Together, we can advocate for our children’s future and stand united to ensure that each district receives the support it needs and deserves.