Are extraordinary special education costs calculated differently under the new formula?
Yes. NJEA is pleased that under the new formula the state is obligated to pay 90 percent of per-pupil special education costs exceeding $40,000 for in-district placements or private placements; and 75 percent of per-pupil costs exceeding $40,000 in separate public schools and $55,000 in private out-of-district placements. Currently, the state only funds about 23 percent of these excess costs, so this represents a positive change. In order to win passage in the legislature, lawmakers agreed that additional aid beyond what the bill requires will be included in FY 2009 budget language.
