Public comments brought to light concerns about the financial practices of a local charter school, College Achieve. John Napatan, President of the Asbury Park Education Association, called for an investigation into the charter school’s allocation of funds, particularly pointing out high administrative salaries. Napatan’s remarks were met with support from the audience, igniting a debate on the impact of the charter school’s financial handling on the regular public school system. He also acknowledged the Acting Superintendent’s support for a letter to Senator Gopal demanding an investigation into the charter school’s activities.

Community members voiced their unease about the charter school, raising issues such as the potential relocation of College Achieve and its impact on Asbury Park students. A community member questioned the district’s obligation to make payments to the charter school if it moved 20 miles away, noting concerns over increased transportation costs. Additionally, the lack of services for students with special needs at Charter Schools was a concern, with community members stressing the importance of public funds supporting all children. The difficulty in verifying the number of Asbury Park students attending College Achieve and the potential misuse of funds were other points of contention.

Board members resonated with the community’s concerns, noting ongoing efforts since 2016 to address these issues. Despite the gravity of the matters discussed, the board proceeded with its agenda, approving a medical leave for an employee and appointing an acting principal for the high school before adjourning the meeting.