The current fiscal crisis in the State of New Jersey calls for the support of all who care about the excellent education provided in our communities. On March 17, we learned that our school district lost 71 percent of our general state aid: $7.6 million. We had already prepared a lean budget following our practice of moderating growth in spending each year over the past seven years. Within days, we had to adjust the budget to reflect this loss of revenue in order to meet the deadline of submission to the New Jersey Department of Education County Office as required by law. The budget to be voted on April 20 shows a 0 percent budget to budget increase in expenditures.
We worked together to realize significant reductions. The teachers’ and administrators’ associations re-opened collective bargaining agreements and agreed to adjustments in salary increases and benefits that will result in more than $1 million in savings for the 2010-11 school year. In addition, the Board is in the process of finalizing agreements with other employee unions that will provide for no salary increases in the 2010-11 school year. Likewise, I and the central office administrators will not receive any additional compensation. Other cost savings include $1.6 million related to Buildings and Grounds and $0.8 million in a reduced number of district administrators. Supplies, capital spending, bussing, and selected co-curricular activities have also been reduced. There will be fewer elementary health and computer teachers, middle and high school teachers, guidance counselors, instructional assistants, bus drivers, and secretaries.
We believe that these reductions — though painful — maintain the integrity of our educational program. In this budget, presented to the voters on April 20, the reductions are at every level of the organization and avoid an outright elimination of wholesale programs and services.
I am privileged to serve as the superintendent of schools of the West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District. I am pleased to own a home in the district and be part of a community that has long provided generous support to our school system, which presently educates 10,000 students.
Research tells us that successful schools are characterized by dedicated educators, motivated students, involved parents, and a supportive community. This partnership provides opportunities for our students to excel academically, artistically, and athletically. The strengths of our school district attract families to the communities of West Windsor and Plainsboro. In the West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District, educational excellence is a reality.
I am confident that we will continue the strong partnership that built this great school district and position our students for excellence now and in the future.
Please vote on April 20. WW-P polls are open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Victoria Kniewel
Superintendent of Schools, West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District
