River Dell School Board Confronts Budget Cuts and Celebrates Achievements

Overview: The River Dell School Board meeting addressed a budget challenge while also recognizing student and school accomplishments. A notable $300,000 reduction in state aid, constituting an 11% decrease, was a primary focus. Despite this financial obstacle, the Board discussed a proposed budget that aims to preserve district staff, academic programs, extracurricular activities, and transportation services while adhering to state-mandated caps. The budget presentation also detailed the municipal tax levy’s impact on River Edge and Oradell residents.

Rutherford School Board Addresses Budget and Staffing

Overview: The Rutherford School Board meeting held on April 29th, 2024, pivoted around the 2024-2025 budget presentation, which detailed the impact of a 2% tax levy cap and a 6% increase in health benefits premiums, alongside a 7% increase in state aid. The budget’s focus was on staffing, facilities maintenance, and per-pupil district costs, with comparisons drawn to other districts’ spending based on socioeconomic status. The board also discussed financial management strategies that allowed for the maintenance and growth of programs without cuts and the utilization of grant money for educational initiatives.

Glen Rock School Board Approves Budget, Addresses Energy Savings

Overview: The Glen Rock School Board convened to discuss and approve the financial plan for the 2024-2025 school year, placing emphasis on energy savings, budget allocations for district goals, and the anticipated tax rate increase. The recent meeting commenced with a moment of silence for Wendy Ro, a beloved art teacher who recently passed away, followed by tributes. Subsequently, the board delved into a careful discussion on the district’s finances, including a comprehensive budget presentation that covered the development process, allocations for enhancing security measures, community communications, instructional materials, and energy improvements.

Emerson School Board Approves Budget with Tax Increase

Overview: In a recent Emerson School Board meeting, discussions culminated in the approval of the upcoming school year’s budget. The budget prioritizes maintaining the district’s staffing levels, with only one position reduction due to retirement, and supports various educational initiatives, including expanded ESL programs and math curriculum revisions. Capital projects such as roof replacement, tennis court renovations, and classroom renovations were also addressed. The proposed tax levy increase of approximately 2.9% will result in an average $219 increase in taxes for the average homeowner.

Pascack Valley School Board Faces Music Program Cuts and Budget Challenges

Overview: The Pasack Valley Regional High School District School Board meeting on April 29th, 2024, was marked by discussions surrounding potential cuts to the music department, the resignation of Vice President Joseph Blundo, and the challenges of balancing the upcoming year’s budget. The meeting saw debate over the importance of music education and the potential impact on students’ futures.