01:40:37Superintendent Justin Smith presented the final budget for the 2025-2026 school year, confronting the board with the severe financial predicament facing the district. The district finds itself nearly $15 million under adequacy due to reduced state funding and the ramifications of the state’s S2 legislation. The proposal to increase the local tax levy by about $14.2 million, along with $710,000 in additional incentive aid, is a direct response to the district losing over $7 million annually in state aid. The budget presentation, the fifth in its series, underscored the urgency of maintaining district operations amidst escalating costs, including salaries, benefits, and special education services.

A significant portion of the budget discussion revolved around Evesham’s ranking as the fourth lowest in budgetary spending per student in New Jersey, with a disparity of approximately $3,500 less per student than the average K-8 district in the state. This results in a resource shortfall exceeding $16 million needed to meet average standards. Dr. Smith highlighted that despite advocacy for removing the 6% cap on state aid increases, the cap persists, pressing the district to seek additional local tax levy funds.

01:50:57The proposed budget includes efforts to restore essential programs that faced cuts, such as reducing class sizes, preserving extracurricular activities, and sustaining transportation services. The district plans to generate savings by outsourcing part of its transportation services, projected to save at least $800,000. Meanwhile, infrastructure improvements are earmarked for $7.5 million, addressing deferred maintenance needs.

02:45:32The meeting also revisited the contentious decision to rent space in Deacy Elementary School to the Yale program. Community members strongly opposed this move, fearing it would disrupt current students’ experiences. Concerns were raised about logistical challenges and the lack of transparency in decision-making. A teacher from Deacy highlighted the adverse effects on using the pod area for existing educational activities, emphasizing the need to prioritize current students over newcomers.

02:26:51Additionally, discussions on outsourcing transportation services drew attention. Community members and bus drivers voiced concerns over the potential loss of local jobs, the reliability of outsourced services, and the increase in operational challenges. The commitment to keeping transportation under local control was emphasized, with calls for the board to explore proposals that would save jobs and improve efficiency.

02:34:28Public comments further revealed community apprehensions about the projected impact of the budget on taxpayers. Some residents expressed fears that tax increases would disproportionately affect young families and low-income individuals, driving long-time residents out of the community. One board member criticized the reliance on taxpayers to fulfill state mandates, urging a more balanced approach to budget restoration.

03:03:19The board also addressed the integration of students from different educational backgrounds, with concerns raised about the capacity of Deacy School to accommodate Yale students, particularly regarding safety and behavioral management. The potential for disruptive behaviors and the need for a conducive learning environment free from additional stressors were key points made by parents and staff.