JEFFERSON — Assemblywoman Aura Dunn is calling on Governor Mikie Sherrill to hold a school funding meeting in the Highlands region, saying schools in West Milford, Jefferson and throughout the Highlands are facing a serious funding crisis.
The Sherrill administration recently scheduled an 18-month series of public meetings to discuss changes to New Jersey’s school funding formula, but the Highlands region was left off the schedule, according to Dunn.
“Our schools in West Milford, Jefferson, and throughout the Highlands are facing a serious funding crisis,” Dunn said. “Five schools have already closed in the past two years, and our communities cannot afford to wait any longer for a solution. Our communities deserve a seat at the table.”
Dunn, who represents the 25th Legislative District, said she has been fighting for a fairer school funding formula, including introducing her Clean Water Promise legislative package to address the financial burden placed on Highlands communities.
“Our towns help protect New Jersey’s drinking water, but restrictions on development have placed significant strain on local taxpayers and schools,” Dunn said.
Dunn also helped secure $625,000 in emergency school aid for Jefferson and West Milford earlier this year. “While this provided needed relief, temporary funding is not a long-term solution,” she said.
“I am calling on Governor Sherrill to hold a school funding meeting in the Highlands as soon as possible,” Dunn said. “Our families, educators, and taxpayers deserve to be heard. I will continue fighting for a fair and sustainable solution for our schools.”
Dunn is encouraging residents to contact the Governor’s Office at (609) 292-6000 to request a meeting in the region.
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