Board member Scardino Estella voiced her support, saying, “I have reviewed and discussed the final 2023-2024 school budget with Mr. de Corso and support his recommendation to the board… to adopt the final 2023-2024 budget as presented.”

Among the budget provisions is a new middle school class for special education students moving up from the lower grades. There are also plans to cover tuition costs for over 40 students attending school outside the district.

In terms of technology, funds have been set aside for routine updates to the school district’s tech hardware every three to four years. The district’s security infrastructure is set for an upgrade as well, complemented by a close working relationship with the local police department.

Despite a recent water main break that led to the temporary closure of Roosevelt school, maintenance plans are in place, including door replacements at the high school and various painting projects. The board also put a hold on the Jefferson School window project to explore potential grant funding opportunities.

Financial Officer James Hyman provided a detailed financial report. The total budget for expenditures is estimated to be $52.6 million, with a total tax levy for the township of about $42.4 million, an increase of roughly 3.13% from the previous year.

The budget also includes the addition of a new special education classroom focusing on Autism ABA at the middle school, a biology teacher at the high school, and new Chromebooks for middle school students. After approving the budget, the board moved to an executive session.