As the Hardyston Board of Education begins its budget workshops, several controversial topics have emerged that could significantly impact students, families, and the community. Among the key discussions were proposals to consolidate bus routes, adjust school start times, and implement cost-saving measures without thorough financial analysis. Here’s a breakdown of the most pressing concerns.
Pre-K to 8th Graders on the Same Bus?
One of the most alarming proposals involved consolidating bus routes by placing pre-K students on the same buses as middle schoolers. While the idea was introduced as a cost-saving measure, board members debated whether it was appropriate to mix such a wide age range of students on one bus.
- No data was presented on how feasible this change would be logistically.
- Parent concerns about younger students being exposed to middle school behavior were dismissed by some board members.
- A suggestion was made to add bus monitors or retired police officers to maintain order, but no cost estimate was provided.
- The board did not initially plan to survey parents before discussing the idea further.
This proposal raises significant concerns about student safety, supervision, and the impact on social dynamics on school buses.
Adjusting School Start Times to Force Bus Consolidation
To accommodate the proposed bus consolidation, some board members floated the idea of adjusting school start times.
- The logistics of changing schedules for both elementary and middle school students were not fully explored.
- Board members acknowledged that such a change would require significant planning, yet the discussion suggested it could be pushed forward quickly.
- The potential impact on parents’ work schedules, childcare arrangements, and student learning was not addressed.
Budgeting Without Clear Cost Savings Analysis
The meeting also highlighted a lack of concrete financial figures for major budget items. While board members emphasized the need to cut costs, key discussions revealed gaps in planning:
- No clear numbers were available regarding healthcare costs, even though they represent a significant portion of the budget.
- Proposals to consolidate bus routes and adjust staffing lacked financial estimates, making it unclear whether these changes would actually save money.
- Board members debated whether past tax increases had provided measurable benefits, with some questioning the district’s approach to budgeting without first setting clear academic or financial goals.
Concerns About Academic Performance & Spending Priorities
A broader issue raised during the meeting was whether taxpayers are seeing the academic results they expect in exchange for continued budget increases.
- One board member pointed out that test scores in certain subjects, such as math, have been declining.
- It was suggested that the board set clear academic and attendance goals before determining the budget, rather than raising taxes without a structured plan for improvement.
- The idea of treating the budget more like a business-setting goals first and then determining costs-was proposed, but not universally supported.
Community Engagement is Critical
These budget discussions highlight the importance of public participation in Board of Education meetings. Decisions about busing, school schedules, and budget priorities will have a lasting impact on students and taxpayers alike.
There are still more budget workshops scheduled-now is the time for parents and community members to make their voices heard.