TRENTON — New Jersey is launching a statewide effort to strengthen its school funding system and ensure every student has access to the opportunities, resources, and support they need to succeed. Through a collaborative, stakeholder-driven process, the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) will work with families, educators, school leaders, legislators, advocates, and community partners to identify opportunities for improvement.
The initiative, announced by the Sherrill administration, will include an online public learning series, stakeholder engagement sessions, and the creation of a statewide steering committee to examine the state’s school funding formula and recommend improvements. According to the administration, the effort follows concerns raised by educators, families, and community members that the current funding system is not adequately meeting the needs of all students, despite record investments in public education.
“Ensuring every student has access to a world-class education is our top priority. This effort is about listening to communities, understanding what students and schools need to succeed, and making sure our school funding system delivers for our kids,” said Gov. Mikie Sherrill. “Education spending is the single largest investment our state makes year to year, and we have a responsibility to ensure we are getting the best return on every dollar spent. By reforming our funding system, we can ensure resources are directed where they have the greatest impact, creating pathways to success for students, strengthening communities, and supporting long-term economic growth.”
The Department of Education said the outreach process will focus on improving transparency, accountability, funding stability, and predictability, while examining ways to better address students’ needs and reduce cost pressures on school districts.
“Our goal is simple: make sure every student has access to the opportunities, resources, and support they need to succeed,” said Education Commissioner Dr. Lily Laux.
This fall, NJDOE will convene a statewide steering committee, led by Commissioner Laux and supported by The Hunt Institute, a national nonpartisan education policy organization, to review New Jersey’s school funding system and help identify opportunities for improvement.
Residents can view the NJDOE’s Learning Series, including a video titled “NJ State Aid 101,” to better understand how school funding works in New Jersey. Those interested in staying informed can sign up for email updates on the New Jersey School Funding Outreach Project, including news, events, and resources.
