For far too long, I have kept silent about the state of the Toms River School District.
As mayor, I have always respected the independence of our school board and the democratic process by which its members are elected. But as the situation has worsened and misinformation has spread, I can no longer remain on the sidelines. Our children, our families, and our taxpayers deserve the truth—and decisive action.
Recently, Superintendent Mike Citta has made claims that I am personally preventing him from receiving an $80,000 raise, which would bring his salary to $308,000 per year.
Let me be clear: While I believe such a raise is outrageous, I have no authority over the superintendent’s contract. The decision rests with a handful of school board members who, rightfully, have serious concerns about approving an excessive salary increase at a time of fiscal crisis.
The superintendent’s focus should be on improving our schools, not on spreading false aspersions or pushing for a pay raise that most taxpayers would find indefensible.
Even worse, Mr. Citta recently attempted to steer the district toward bankruptcy—despite the fact that debt service represents just 3.5% of the total budget and the state provided the district with an additional $2 million in aid this year.
Meanwhile, Toms River residents are being crushed by out-of-control school taxes. This year alone, school taxes have risen by 13%, following a 9.9% increase last year.
That’s a staggering $47 million in new taxes in just two years. Let me be clear, these tax increases are entirely being driven by increasing spending. In 2021, the total school budget was $247 million; by 2024, it had ballooned to $303 million. That’s $56 million in new spending. Meanwhile, enrollment dropped by 1,000 students over the same period.
What are we getting for this massive increase in spending? Disturbingly very little. State test scores show that 55% of Toms River students are failing in reading and writing, and 67% are failing in mathematics. This is unacceptable.
Mike Citta cannot continue to ask taxpayers for more while results continue to decline. It’s time for a new direction—one that prioritizes academic excellence, fiscal discipline, and transparency. Our children’s future depends on it. We must raise the bar for our schools, our leaders, and ourselves. Mike Citta needs to resign!
Daniel T. Rodrick
Mayor, Toms River