NJ lawmakers pressed to boost security aid for private religious schools
LAKEWOOD, NJ – A leading advocacy group for Jewish schools in New Jersey is urging lawmakers to increase state funding for nonpublic school security, warning that current aid levels no longer match the growing risks facing students. The request was made during testimony before the New Jersey State Assembly Budget Committee as part of deliberations over the Fiscal Year 2027 budget.
In 2019, New Jersey increased security funding for private schools in Lakewood by approximately $2.2 million, doubling the amount to $150 per student. Now, Agudath Israel of America says that is not enough. That money was supposed to be used for school safety, security systems, and other security issues.
Shlomo Schorr, Director of Legislative Affairs for Agudath Israel’s New Jersey office, told legislators that while the state’s Nonpublic School Security Aid program has helped schools strengthen safety measures, funding has remained unchanged for four consecutive budget cycles. He called for an increase from $205 to $260 per pupil to address rising costs and evolving threats.
“Security is no longer simply a precaution — it is a daily necessity,” Schorr told lawmakers. “Our schools are facing a heightened threat environment, and the cost of protecting students has increased significantly.”
Call for expanded security staffing and resources
Schorr said the proposed increase would allow schools not only to maintain existing infrastructure such as cameras and controlled access points, but also to expand staffing for on-site security personnel. He noted that many schools are struggling to sustain consistent protection without additional state support.
Key Points
- Advocacy group seeks increase in NJ school security aid from $205 to $260 per pupil
- Funding has remained unchanged for four budget cycles despite rising threats
- Proposal aims to expand on-site security personnel and maintain infrastructure
“The focus has shifted from infrastructure alone to the urgent need for trained, on-site security personnel,” Schorr said. “For many schools, maintaining a consistent and professional security presence is becoming increasingly difficult without additional state support.”
He pointed to recent incidents, including a mass shooting at a religious school last year and a foiled attack in Michigan last week, as examples of ongoing risks facing faith-based institutions. Schorr also cited the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness’ 2026 Threat Assessment, which identifies religious communities and schools as potential targets for extremist actors.
“These are not hypothetical concerns,” Schorr said. “They are documented threats that require a serious and proactive response.”
Lawmakers weigh funding amid budget talks
Schorr expressed appreciation for past legislative support while urging lawmakers to adopt the proposed increase in the final budget, noting the number of students affected statewide.
“We are grateful for the support the Legislature has shown over the years,” Schorr concluded. “We respectfully ask that you take this next step to ensure the safety and well-being of nearly 160,000 nonpublic school students across our state.”
