Set to Introduce Legislation Sparing Hard-Hit School Districts from Aid Reductions

Senator Jim Holzapfel and Assemblymen Greg McGuckin and John Catalano have drafted legislation that would shield school districts that are spending below adequacy levels from additional reductions in State school aid.

“The urgent need for this measure is magnified by devastating aid numbers released by the Department of Education,” said Holzapfel. “While the State budget is expanding by 5 percent to $40.85 billion, taxpayers in our Shore towns are being told they have to pick up the slack for more than 8 percent in funding cuts. Our legislation offers an antidote to this unfair treatment under the school funding formula.”

The 10th District legislators will introduce the bill in Trenton today.

“Schools can only do so much with limited resources,” said McGuckin. “The harsh funding cuts released last week will no doubt have a negative impact on our children’s education and their futures. With sufficient funding, we can empower the next generation and properly educate New Jersey’s future leaders.”

Two school districts in LD 10 – Brick Township and Toms River Regional – were the hardest hit by the new numbers. Funding for Toms River was slashed by $5.3 million (8.4 percent), and Brick took a $4.2 million (13.3 percent) hit.
Both districts would qualify for the protections offered by the new legislation.

“Schools in our district are constantly facing funding crises,” said Catalano. “Cutting essential education aid for grade and high schools will cause teachers to struggle and students to suffer. The State should assist and increase funds for quality public education. Until then, our legislation can provide some relief for Shore community homeowners.”