Community Fights to Save Beloved Staff Position at East Brunswick School Board Meeting

Overview: The recent East Brunswick School Board meeting was marked by a significant outpouring of community support for Dr. Lou Figaroa, whose position is at risk of being eliminated. Numerous residents, including educators, parents, and former students, voiced their concerns and shared testimonies of Dr. Figaroa’s positive impact on the community and students.

East Brunswick Faces Budget Cuts and Community Advocacy for School Programs

Overview: In a recent meeting, the East Brunswick School Board addressed budgetary challenges, with a projected deficit of $7.8 million prompting discussions on potential cuts to staff and programs. The community advocated for the retention of instrumental music programs and the position of Dr. Lou Figaroa, an administrator valued for his contributions, particularly to special education.

East Brunswick School Board Explores Community Engagement and Board Vacancies

Overview: The East Brunswick School Board meeting primarily focused on interviewing candidates to fill two vacancies on the board and discussing the district’s role within the community. Community members participated, presenting their qualifications for board positions and expressing their opinions on various school and district-related topics. The debate extended to the transformative power of education, the importance of advocacy and parent-teacher engagement, and the school’s relationship with the broader community.

East Brunswick School Board Grapples with Budget and State Aid Cuts

Overview: The East Brunswick School Board convened to address a challenging budget scenario characterized by a significant state aid reduction and the expiration of Covid-19 grant funds, potentially leading to job cuts. The meeting’s discussions centered on the financial impact of a $1.3 million decrease in state aid, the implications of health benefits and special education costs, and the increase in transportation expenses due to a bus driver shortage. Additionally, the Board considered the potential need for an alternate site for bus expansion and the handling of the expiration of special grant funds.

East Brunswick School Board Addresses Budget Shortfalls and Electric Bus Funding

Overview: In a recent meeting, the East Brunswick School Board confronted financial challenges for the upcoming school year, grappling with a substantial budget deficit and funding issues for new electric buses. The tentative budget for the 2024-2025 school year was presented, revealing a $8 million gap due to decreased state aid and increased charter school costs. The district also faced setbacks in obtaining grant funding for electric buses, with a shortfall of over $27,000 per bus.