School Budget

To reduce the cost of transportation, district officials have suggested a busing hub system “where students would be assigned hubs that are no more than 1.25 miles from their home.” One parent called the idea “baffling.” Officials say the concept is in the discovery phase and would not be implemented in 2025-26.

Jocelyn Ryan and Erin Siders of the South Orange/Maplewood Coalition on Race’s Schools Committee asked the Board of Education to be “100%” committed to the Intentional Integration Initiative, in response to some town hall comments questioning the cost of the program and transportation.

“We have the challenges defined,” said Board Member Elizabeth Callahan. “Now, it’s about driving solutions and actually doing the work.”

“The unfortunate reality…is that some very good, inspiring, outstanding educators have got caught in the crosshairs, and for that I’m truly sorry,” said Gilbert. Noting the many “tough” decisions that had to be made, the BOE passed the resolution by an 8-1 vote.

BOE member Bill Gifford said such an audit would provide “valuable insights into the financial health of our district” and “set up our future Business Administrator for success.”

“…at this point, we are well beyond trimming fat from our budget. We are cutting into bone,” said Gilbert.
Meanwhile, at Monday’s BOSE meeting, Business Admin. Eric Burnside defended himself and his office against accusations of mismanaging funds.

As district faces unexpected deficit, Board members implore Business Administrator to rethink budgeting process. “None of us feel good about this,” one BOE member said.

State aid for SOMSD will top $10M for 2024/25, as Gov. Murphy increases aid to many districts in NJ.

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