TRENTON, NJ—In a recent statement following the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee hearing, Senator Paul Sarlo and Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz addressed the current state of school funding in New Jersey based on the Governor’s FY2025 budget proposal for the Department of Education.
The Senators highlighted that the proposed budget would fully fund the school aid formula for the first time, reflecting a significant increase of $908 million, culminating in a total of $11.5 billion in state support for public education. They celebrated this milestone as a critical step forward in promoting educational opportunities and supporting local taxpayers.
However, Sarlo and Ruiz acknowledged ongoing challenges, pointing out that 140 school districts would see a reduction in state aid due to various factors like demographic changes and local economic conditions. They emphasized the complexity of these issues and committed to working during the budget process to find solutions for these districts.
Additionally, they noted the willingness of Acting Education Commissioner Kevin Dehmer to offer flexibility for districts to amend their budgets post-submission, contingent on legislative action that supports such adjustments. This approach aims to ensure a thorough and considerate review of school funding issues moving forward.