We are approaching a decision that will help shape the future of our schools and our students. On Tuesday, March 10, Robbinsville voters will be asked to participate in a special election to consider additional local funding for public education.
This proposal comes at a time when our district is working to address a significant, recurring structural budget deficit that, if not resolved, will impact staffing levels, class sizes, and the programs that support a well-rounded educational experience for our students.
We are projecting a shortfall of approximately $5 million for the next two school years. This gap is the result of several factors that have developed over time, including our district’s historical approach of remaining below the full allowable tax cap, rising operational costs, inflation, increasing expenses related to special education and transportation, and ongoing limitations in state aid.
While our costs continue to rise, our revenue options are limited, making local funding a critical part of this conversation.
If voters approve the proposed increase of $5,031,476 in local school funding, Robbinsville Public Schools would be able to maintain current staffing levels and preserve the academic and extracurricular programs our families value.
Without this additional support, we will be forced to eliminate up to 22 classroom teaching positions, nine student-facing educator roles, and additional crucial staff. These potential reductions would be felt across our schools, affecting classroom instruction, student support services, and the overall learning environment.
This referendum is not about expansion. It is about stability. The proposed funding would sustain our existing programs, maintain reasonable class sizes, and continue offerings such as electives, athletics, clubs, and enrichment opportunities.
These programs play an essential role in fostering student engagement, academic growth, and social-emotional well-being. They reflect the values our community has long held for public education.
Transparency and collaboration are central to how we are approaching this referendum. To that end, we have scheduled a series of public information sessions taking place several evenings per week, led by our district’s school leaders.
These sessions are designed to provide clarity around our budget challenges, explain the details of the ballot question, and create space for open, respectful dialogue.
I encourage community members to attend, review the financial information we have shared, and ask questions about how the proposed funding would be used. Moreover, the community should ask the potential impacts if voters reject the public question.
We have made budget documents and financial reports publicly available. My administrative team and I are available through multiple channels and welcome opportunities to engage with you, based on your availability. Please feel free to contact me directly to schedule a group or personal meeting at Pizzo.Patrick@robbinsvillek12.gov.
A substantial and growing number of school districts across New Jersey are facing similar challenges, as rising costs and evolving funding structures place increasing pressure on local budgets.
Dr. Patrick Pizzo is Superintendent of the Robbinsville Public Schools.
Robbinsville Superintendent Dr. Patrick Pizzo.,
