NEWARK, NJ – Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli has vowed to overhaul spending practices in the Newark School District if elected. This announcement comes in response to claims by Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia about the district’s financial management.
Fantasia alleges that New Jersey taxpayers not residing in Newark contribute over $1.2 billion annually to the district, which she claims is misused for extravagant staff trips, social events with alcohol funded by taxpayer money, and questionable consultant fees.
Specifically, she points to lavish travels to locations such as Honolulu and Palm Springs, a “FUN DAY” organized by Superintendent Roger León, and a $1.4 million payment to an uncertified consultant who failed to deliver on learning loss remediation.
Additionally, Fantasia criticizes the district’s decision to spend millions above the market price to purchase a school building in an under-enrolled area, outbidding a public charter school.
Despite receiving an extra $287 million in Covid relief ESSER funds intended for learning loss, only 16% of eligible students were reportedly served.
Ciattarelli responded to these claims on Twitter, stating, “This ends when I’m Governor. It’s time,” signaling his commitment to reforming financial practices in the school district.
