Why did NJEA decide to support the new formula?
• Increases state aid to schools by providing an additional $552 million in state aid to districts in 2008-2009. • Expands quality preschool programs to all districts by investing $310 million over the next six years – and bringing total preschool spending to over $800 million. • Increases funding for extraordinary special education costs. • Increases funding for at-risk students by broadening the definition of “at-risk” to include students who are eligible for both free- and reduced-price lunches. • Provides increased state aid to a large number of districts that have been flat-funded for five the past six years. Q: Does NJEA have any remaining concerns about the new formula? The Association remains concerned about the ability of current Abbott districts to maintain existing programs that have proven to be successful in raising student achievement and in closing achievement gaps. NJEA fought unsuccessfully to restore an appeals process for Abbott districts. NJEA will closely monitor t
