The decision to outsource the before and after school care program emerged as a necessity following financial distress identified in April 2025. The current in-house model was deemed unsustainable, prompting the board to explore outsourcing to ensure the program’s viability. Financial auditors recommended this path to manage the district’s financial challenges effectively. The board initially approved the Request for Proposals (RFP) process in May, emphasizing a competitive approach that balanced pricing with program quality and staffing considerations.

Champions, under the KinderCare umbrella, was selected from five proposals reviewed by a committee that included board members, the administration, and a parent. Brian Greser and his team from Champions presented their program, highlighting extensive experience serving over 200,000 children nationwide. They assured compliance with New Jersey state licensing and a commitment to local hiring and staff training, particularly for children with special health needs. Their presentation emphasized a collaborative vision with the school district, focusing on safety, enrichment activities, and robust communication with families.

Despite these assurances, the proposal faced resistance due to KinderCare’s history of alleged neglect and regulatory violations. Community members and board members alike expressed skepticism about a large corporation managing a local program, fearing it might compromise quality and safety. Concerns were also raised about staff wages and working conditions, drawing attention to KinderCare’s track record of labor violations.

Some parents praised the existing in-house program for its longstanding relationships and local control. Others shared negative experiences with the current program, citing safety and management issues. Buffy Wild Greenberg criticized the board’s narrative of crisis and urgency, arguing that the situation was a result of administrative mismanagement rather than an inherent program failure.

The board emphasized that outsourcing was a financial decision driven by the district’s inability to sustain the current model without jeopardizing other essential services. The approved contract with Champions is a one-year agreement with options for renewal, contingent on meeting district expectations. The board assured that performance metrics, including third-party evaluations, would ensure accountability and maintain service standards.

In addition to the after-school program decision, the board discussed the program’s affordability and accessibility. The new structure resembles an enrichment model, providing financial assistance and scholarships for families not qualifying for subsidies. Champions agreed to accept state subsidies and offer discounts to district employees, military families, and those eligible for free or reduced lunch.

The meeting also touched on the program’s flexibility and scheduling, allowing parents to adjust schedules weekly and pay only for required days. Board members expressed a commitment to continuous evaluation, with feedback from staff and parents to guide improvements. Despite the contentious nature of the decision, the board’s priority remains providing a sustainable and effective program for Highland Park families.

The board acknowledged the potential risks associated with outsourcing but highlighted the urgency of the situation. Delaying the decision would have jeopardized the program’s readiness for the upcoming school year.