Paterson Board of Education rejects $854 million budget proposal

PATERSON - The Paterson Board of Education has voted against a proposed school budget of $854 million for the upcoming academic year. The budget, which would have raised taxes by 6%, was rejected by a vote of 8-1 on Monday night. The decision requires the district to find a new plan before a deadline to submit to the New Jersey Department of Education. The rejected budget included layoffs for 36 teachers and cuts to special education services. Board president Eddie Gonzalez expressed concerns about families struggling financially in the city. “There are too many homes where families don’t have an extra dollar to feed their children,” he said. Some board members raised questions about the potential impact on education quality. Kenneth Simmons, the only member to support the budget, acknowledged the need for better education but also highlighted the unwillingness to pay for it. Concerns about public perception and the budget’s impact on students were also mentioned. Board member Della McCall criticized the communication about the budget and expressed worries over putting students in a worse situation. Corey Teague, another board member, stated that he could not support the tax hike despite wanting better special education programs. The situation remains unresolved, putting pressure on the district administration to find solutions.