Students from Camden voice budget reduction concerns to the New Jersey State Department of Education
In a move that has left many in the community concerned, the Camden City School District is facing significant budget cuts. The district, which has benefited the most from Gov. Phil Murphy's budget proposal among other districts in South Jersey, is now grappling with a budget deficit of $91 million.
The district leader, McCombs, is leaving the district to join the Department of Education as assistant commissioner for the Division of Early Childhood Services in July. McCombs has blamed the budget shortfall on declining enrollment and increased payments to charter and Renaissance schools. However, the looming cuts could mean significant reductions to the education of the students.
On Wednesday, students protested these cuts at a rally in Trenton. Community members and representatives from various organizations such as the Camden Education Association, New Jersey Education Association, NAACP New Jersey State Conference Youth and College Division, and New Jersey Working Families Party showed their support. The students expressed their disappointment in not seeing their teachers and support staff at the rally.
The Camden High School campus will have its leadership consolidated, with the number of principals reducing from four to one. Over 100 people, including teachers and support staff, will be laid off to cover the budget deficit. One of those being let go is the family and operations coordinator at Creative Arts High School, who was integral to the academic career of one student.
Social studies teacher Michael Warren is concerned about students returning to the classroom next year without the support they have relied on to be successful. To mitigate the impact, the district will be supported by four 'lead educators' or vice principals. The New Jersey Department of Education remains committed to supporting the district during this period of transition, working closely with the district to help maintain a high-quality education for every student.
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At a meeting of the state Board of Education held concurrently with the rally, several students spoke about their concerns. One of the decisions made was the conversion of Morgan Village Middle School into an alternative school, and students in grades 6-8 will attend class at their neighborhood family schools.
McCombs has stated that more school closures are not needed. Despite the challenges, the community continues to rally together, demonstrating their unwavering support for the students and the future of education in Camden.
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