Garden State Times

TRENTON, N.J. – Superintendents and school officials in New Jersey are rallying behind Assembly Republican Leader John DiMaio's plan to fully fund schools and reduce property taxes, in response to Governor Phil Murphy's budget proposal that includes significant state aid cuts.

DiMaio emphasized the importance of fair funding for schools, stating, "Fairly funding schools means every school district in this state is able to meet its constitutional duty and provide the high-quality education that New Jersey prides itself on." He highlighted that his plan aims to avoid cuts to services and programs, ensuring job security for teachers.

The Fully Funding Schools and Cutting Property Taxes Act (A1125) proposed by DiMaio seeks to fund schools up to their adequacy budget, protect schools from state aid losses, and ultimately lead to property tax cuts. Lenape Regional High School District Superintendent Carol Birnbohm expressed support for the bill, stating, “Assemblyman DiMaio’s proposed bill offers a promising solution, potentially allocating over $9 million in state aid to our district."

Brick School District Superintendent Thomas Farrell pointed out the flaws in the current state funding formula, emphasizing the need for adequate resources to meet students' needs. Toms River School District officials also highlighted the detrimental impact of state aid cuts on districts, with Superintendent Michael Citta and Business Administrator Bill Doering calling for immediate action to address funding losses.

The proposed bill aims to address the funding disparities faced by various districts, with Jefferson Township Public Schools Superintendent Jeanne Howe advocating for changes such as funding special education based on actual enrollment and increasing per-pupil costs. Weymouth Township School District Superintendent Al Lewis highlighted the unsustainable loss of state aid and the need for urgent financial relief for districts.

Millville Public Schools Superintendent Tony Trongone stressed the importance of equitable distribution of resources among districts, while Lacey Township School District Superintendent Vanessa R. Pereira emphasized the challenges faced in her district due to budget reductions affecting staff and student support services.

The proposed legislation, currently under review by the Assembly Education Committee, is viewed as a crucial step towards securing adequate funding for schools and addressing property tax concerns. DiMaio's plan aims to restore funding to districts that have faced cuts, allowing for the rehiring of staff, program implementation, and support for student needs.

In conclusion, Superintendent John DiMaio reiterated the urgency of prioritizing students and taxpayers over politics, stating, “It shouldn’t matter that this is a Republican proposal. As soon as my colleagues across the aisle can put kids above politics, we can pass this legislation and every student and every taxpayer will be better for it.”