On January 21, 2025, the Hardyston Board of Education held its first budget workshop of the year. The district recently released a summary of key takeaways, which can be seen below:
At first glance, the update looks promising-but how much does it actually tell us?
Key Takeaways: What’s Missing?
While the district highlights initiatives like STEM funding, classroom air conditioning, and tutoring programs, there are crucial questions left unanswered:
- What Cuts Are Being Made to Balance the Budget?
- The update discusses new spending, but how is the district funding these initiatives? What programs, staff, or services are being cut?
- How Will Cost Savings Impact Students?
- Consolidating bus routes may save money, but will it lead to longer ride times for students?
- Will the district guarantee that safety measures like bus monitors or retired officers are implemented?
- Will this actually save money?
- Transparency on Taxpayer Dollars
- The sign replacement is mentioned, but where are the full budget figures?
- How much of the capital reserve is being used for air conditioning?
Moving Forward: Demand Clarity
While this budget workshop update provides a surface-level overview, it lacks critical details on funding sources, trade-offs, and long-term planning. Taxpayers, parents, and educators deserve more transparency about how these decisions will impact our schools.
📢 Were you at the meeting? Did you hear something that wasn’t included in this update? Share your thoughts here.
The next budget workshop is scheduled for February 25 at 7 PM in the middle school cafeteria-let’s make sure we get the full story.