TOMS RIVER, NJ—The Toms River Regional Schools district has been granted permission by the New Jersey Department of Education to proceed with a referendum that could extend its territory to include Seaside Heights.
Seaside Heights consists of nearly 300 students from the Boyd Elementary School.
The decision, allowing the matter to go to a public vote on April 16, comes after Acting Commissioner Kevin Dehmer of the NJDOE endorsed the application.
In a statement released by the district, Superintendent Michael Citta revealed that a series of Town Hall meetings is scheduled to start March 18 to delve into the implications of the proposed merger for both Toms River and Seaside Heights. These meetings aim to facilitate a comprehensive dialogue on the subject, following the state’s nod for a public referendum.
In anticipation of the public vote, Citta emphasized the importance of educating the community about the referendum’s stakes. The initiative to incorporate Seaside Heights into the Toms River district represents a significant move, underscored by the distribution of informative materials, including FAQs and details of upcoming Town Hall gatherings. The superintendent’s dedication to providing clear and factual information is evident in his commitment to direct engagement with residents through these forums.