Newark Public Schools Health Benefits Program Saves Employees Millions

NEWARK, N.J. – Newark Public Schools employees have avoided the state’s sharp increases in health insurance costs because of the district’s self-insured program.

Since establishing its self-funded health benefits program under local control in 2018, Newark Public Schools has consistently experienced greater premium stability than the state-administered School Employees’ Health Benefits Program (SEHBP).

Aon, the State’s actuary, has recommended an average 34.4% increase in SEHBP premiums for active school employees throughout New Jersey in 2027, with plan-specific increases to our colleagues throughout this state ranging from 31.6% to 45.1%, and it was approved on September 25, 2026.

“The district made a commitment to creating a sustainable benefits program that would protect both employees and public resources,” said Superintendent León. “The results are clear. Newark Public Schools continues to offer robust benefits and wellness resources, and delivered them at significantly lower increases.”

Comprehensive Benefits Beyond Basic Coverage
The district’s results did not come at the expense of the benefits offered to employees. In addition to comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision coverage, Newark Public Schools employees can take advantage of a broad range of wellness, preventive care, and disease management programs that support their health and well-being. These offerings include:

• Free Memberships to Weight Management Programs
• Gym Benefits
• Health Incentive Programs
• Maternity Support Services
• Mental Health Services and Behavioral Health Support
• Diabetes Control, Prevention, and Management 
• Virtual Physical Therapy, Pain Management, and Primary Care Services
• Wellness Fairs and Education Programs
• Specialty Prescription Drug Savings Initiatives

These programs are designed to help employees improve and maintain their overall health while reducing long-term healthcare costs. We care about our employees in the Newark Public Schools.

By maintaining local control over plan design, vendor relationships, and wellness initiatives, Newark Public Schools has been able to achieve a level of stability and sustainability that has become increasingly difficult within the state system. While healthcare costs continue to rise nationwide, Newark Public Schools remains committed to delivering high-quality coverage, innovative wellness resources, and responsible stewardship of public funds.

“Our goal has always been to provide employees with access to exceptional healthcare benefits while managing costs responsibly,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “The district’s experience during the last decade demonstrates that these objectives can be achieved together.”

Our brokers have been critical partners in this endeavor, and we are grateful to Alamo Insurance Group, Inc., and USI, as well as Aetna, and all of our healthcare partners.