NEWARK, N.J. – Newark Public Schools officials introduced a $1.576 Billion preliminary budget that provides for the expansion of schools and facilities, maintains funding for vital services and programs, and enables the District to accommodate its unparalleled increase in student enrollment.
“I want to thank the Board members for advancing a preliminary budget that puts our students and their families first,” said Superintendent León. “I also want to commend the District School Business Administrators and their award-winning team for developing a thoughtful, thorough, and balanced budget that aligns with our historic 10-year strategic plan to transform our District. Their hard work and professionalism continue to drive our District toward stronger financial footing.”
“This preliminary budget delivers the resources our students need to excel academically while upholding our commitment to sound financial management,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “I want to thank the entire Budget Office for their hard work in developing this plan, as well as the members of the Board’s Finance and Budget Committees and all of my fellow Board members for their thoughtful engagement throughout the budgeting process.”
School Business Administrator Valerie Wilson gave a presentation on the proposed budget in which she noted that student enrollment has increased by about 1,600 students since last year. While the District received a $75 million increase in state aid, the District was entitled to a $112 million increase under the School Funding Reform Act, she said. The state and local taxes are the District’s two largest sources of revenue. The tax levy on Newark residents is over $143 million.
- CLICK HERE to see the complete presentation.
Wilson, whose department won the Association of School Business Officials’ 2023-2024 Meritorious Budget Award, also said that the district is using $7.3 million from its capital reserve fund for refurbishing Schools Stadium on Bloomfield Avenue and the Sussex Avenue School cafetorium.
The preliminary budget will be sent to the Essex County Superintendent of Schools for review and approval.
About Newark Public Schools
The Newark Public Schools is the largest school district in New Jersey and dates back to 1676. The District currently enrolls over 40,000 students in 64 schools. After more than two decades of state operation and upon return to local control in 2018, the District has opened ten new schools under Superintendent León’s leadership with an additional portfolio of new options to be announced in the coming months and years. The Newark Board of Education serves as a beacon of educational excellence, dedicated to nurturing the potential of every student. With a commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and fostering a love for learning, the District continues to shape future generations and make a positive impact within the community.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Paul Brubaker, Communications Director
Email: pbrubaker@nullnps.k12.nj.us
Phone: 973-803-6983