We’re continuing to follow a trend hitting school districts all over New Jersey: chronic budget squeezes driven by years of shrinking state aid. In Jefferson Township, school leaders describe the impact as truly ‘debilitating.’ Since the 2018 changes to the state’s school funding formula–often referred to as S2–the district has lost nearly $45 million in cumulative aid. Now, heading into the upcoming school year, officials are staring down a projected shortfall of about $4 million to $4.8 million. That gap is forcing some extremely difficult choices for students, families, and the community.

Joining us live is Jefferson Township Schools Superintendent Jeanne Howe. Superintendent Howe, thanks for taking the time to speak with us today.