»Assembly Committee Votes to Put Charters Under Local Control-
Bill calls for local referendum on any school that wants to be granted a charter in a NJ district.
- »Fine Print: Sen. Ruiz’s New Tenure Bill
-
New teacher categories and a new emphasis on evaluation and student performance make this bill both controversial and compelling.
»State Test Scores Reveal Some Gains, Widening Achievement Gap-
Budget cuts cost New Jersey school districts $1 billion, with some of the poorest districts paying the biggest price.
- »Newark Special Ed Settlement, A Decade in the Details
-
With an agreement in place, the real work of honoring promises begins.
- »Christie Open to Ways to Remedy Anti-Bullying Setback
-
Money may be found to satisfy state ruling that portions of the landmark law are an unfunded mandate.
- »'Hybrid' Charters Will Meld Online Lessons With Conventional Instruction
-
Education 'entrepreneur' to bring new type of school to two of New Jersey’s toughest cities.
- »Dealing with Bullies Back in NJ Legislature’s Court
-
Little-known state council directs lawmakers to fix unfunded state mandate.
- »School Districts Sign on to Move Board Elections to November
-
Breaking with century-old tradition, nearly 60 districts opt to hold their contests on Election Day.
- »Finger-Pointing Precedes Teacher Contract Talks in Newark
-
With negotiations resuming, union, superintendent at odds over plans for troubled schools.
»Christie Sets Path with Picks for NJ Supreme Court-
Nominations of two new justices is historic day for the state's highest court
»NJ Loses Superintendent of Year to NY-
Cap on pay has superintendents considering their options -- and sometimes moving on.
»Can Trenton Find Funding for Higher Education Facilities?-
Christie and new Senate committee agree that college infrastructure gets failing grade.
»Christie Takes His School Reform Message to Irvington Church-
Feisty great-aunt takes exception to governor's approach to teacher evaluation.
- »NJ Spotlight Editor Talks Politics, Policy, and Perspective On WNYC
-
John Mooney Assesses Christie's State of the State on The Brian Lehrer Show.
- »For Christie, 2012 Is the Year to Act on Education Reform -- Again
-
Teacher tenure gaining traction among lawmakers as debates on education continue to swirl.
- »Fine Print: New Law for November School Elections
-
While optional, calendar shift is significant change to the way NJ has voted on school taxes.
»New Session, Charter School Law Still Broken?-
As Christie administration decides on new charters, debate continues about how to fix 15-year-old law.
»Camden Sees Hope in Promise of New Schools Built by Nonprofits-
Christie signs Urban Hope Act in struggling city to spotlight his reform for failing schools
»School Districts Oppose Anti-Bullying Law as an Unfunded Mandate-
Rutgers' coalition of concerned students joins with state to oppose challenge.
»Driving the Teacher Quality Component for Education Reform-
Assistant State Commissioner Peter Shulman brings experience and expertise to his latest post.
- »The State of the Governor's Education Agenda
-
Christie was not short on ambition when it came to education, but how did he fare on his own promises?
»George Norcross Discusses Urban Hope Act, Other Education Reforms-
South Jersey powerbroker talks to NJ Spotlight about how Camden's first 'renaissance school' could be under construction in a year's time.
- »After Last-Minute Changes, Lawmakers Poised to Vote on Urban Hope Act
-
Bill would allow for private building of public 'renaissance schools' in the state's poorest cities.
- »Christie Administration Divvies Up Its Race to the Top Winnings
-
Education budget demonstrates that $38 million can buy a lot of school reform.
- »Criminal Background Check Law Leaves Some School Board Members in Limbo
-
Missing the year-end deadline makes members 'ineligible' but not 'disqualified.'
- »Fast-Tracked and Rewritten Bill Could Put Some Public Schools Under Private Management
-
The Urban Hope Act could bring new public schools -- with some for-profit management -- to some of Jersey's poorest districts.
- »A New Year: Five To Watch in Education
-
A look at who will be shaping schools in 2012.
- »Despite New Guidelines, Anti-Bullying Law Still a Matter for the Attorneys
-
Across the state, school attorneys are serving as the point for anti-bullying actions.
- »Race to the Top 3.0: Administration Tries, Tries (Tries) Again
-
Hoping for a $38 million grant, the education department very quietly files an application.
- »Newark to Adopt National College Entrance Exam
-
Trying to get a better fix on student needs, district plans to add ACT to current tests.
»A Year after His Appointment, Why Is Commissioner Cerf Still 'Acting'?-
Political grudges, impassioned rhetoric may be keeping Cerf from Senate confirmation.
- »Fine Print: New Jersey's "Race to the Top" Scores
-
The state misses out again, this time on the federal Early Learning Challenge.
- »New Jersey's Bare-Minimum Budgets
-
In dozens of districts across New Jersey, local residents can't cut their tax levy -- even if they want to.
- »Suburban School Construction Hits Lowest Point in Past Decade
-
In the suburbs, a handful of renovation projects represent the only activity.
- »New Task Force Tackles Familiar Topic: College and Career Readiness
-
Report due to governor by year end, with many opinions and options still to consider.
- »Newark's First Foray into Teacher Evaluation Pilot, with Teachers Front and Center
-
In first stage, superintendent begins to discuss details, build bridges to staff and community.
- »Administration Reveals Which Charters Have Made the First Cut
-
More than half the applications weeded out, at least for now.
»SDA Building Blocks Standardize Design and Construction-
Efficiency is the watchword, but critics say "kit of parts" approach can miss unique needs.
- »Bill Would Shift School Elections to November
-
Legislation would also eliminate budget votes for towns below 2 percent cap.
»Pilot Teacher Evaluation System Slow to Gain Traction in Newark-
Superintendent Anderson "disappointed" in teachers union, moving ahead in half-dozen schools.
- »Fine Print: Sen. Buono's Teacher Quality Bill
-
Rather than relying heavily on test scores, this bill focuses on peer evaluations and student portfolios.
- »Schools Development Authority: Shovels in the Ground -- Almost
-
For the first time in the Christie era, the SDA has put out a project to bid, with another promised for year's end.
- »Agenda: State Board of Education
-
At the final meeting of the year, the state board takes some time to celebrate superstar teachers and administrators.
- »From Brawls to Charter Challenges, They All Cross the Commissioner's Desk
-
Cerf is the last administrative word on legal challenges filed with state education department.
- »Education Reform Limps Along in Lame Duck
-
Closed-door meetings may lead to some movement, but odds are against it.
»Head of New Jersey Charter School Office Steps Down-
After less than a year on the job, Carly Bolger leaves for position in Chicago.
- »Two Decades On, Opportunity Scholarship Act Remains Moving Target
-
Advocates and opponents struggle to shape final bill and get it in front of entire legislature.
- »Charter Schools Sue State, Claiming They've Been Shortchanged
-
Latest development only adds to the tensions between charters and the districts that host them.
- »Fine Print: Anti-Bullying Incident Report Form
-
The war against school bullying gets a new ally -- a paper one.
- »Christie Administration Considering 'Model Curriculum' for Low-Performing Schools
-
Beyond standards and frameworks, this is the first time the state has moved to devise an actual curriculum.
- »Putting a Face to New Jersey's Homeschooled Students
-
Proposed measure would gather basic information about state's homeschooled population.
- »Suburban Schools vs. Charter: First Round Goes to the Suburbs
-
Princeton charter says it will next appeal decision to acting commissioner.
- »OSA Continues to Be a Lightning Rod for Controversy
-
New advocate of school voucher bill -- with Walton Family financing -- joins the fray.
»Does Administration's New Accountability System Overstep Legal Bounds?-
Christie and Cerf say they can close schools and withhold funds, some legal experts are not so sure.
- »Cerf Issues Reprieve from Statewide Teacher Evaluation Systems
-
Acting education commissioner pushes back implementation deadlines by at least a year.
»Christie's School Accountability Plan To Focus on Urban and Suburban Districts-
New rules will target both achievement and achievement gaps.
- »OPRA Request Reveals Charter Advocates’ Role in Application Process
-
Sen. Gill: Community representatives and traditional school educators conspicuously absent.
- »Tenure, Charters, Vouchers: Lame Duck Session's Big Three
-
The election's over, the legislature's back in session, and education reform is at the top of the docket.
- »State Readies New School Report Cards
-
Details are few, but new system favors rankings and like-to-like comparisons.
- »At $15 Million, Virtual Charter Causes a Real Case of Sticker Shock
-
Teaneck's oversize bill for a proposed charter points out problems and loopholes in current law.
- »Education Department Working Flat Out to Finish Federal Waiver
-
Critics contend too little time taken to gather public input on No Child Left Behind waiver application.
- »Tenure Reform: More Than Just a Matter of Time
-
For some experts there's no point in adding years with adding mentors as well.
- »What's Waiting for the Winners in Trenton? Education Reform
-
Debates on the big issues -- like charters and tenure -- are just going to get started in the lame duck session.
- »Fine Print: NCLB Waiver Application -- Draft Outline
-
A closer look at the Christie administration's waiver for the federal No Child Left Behind Act.
- »New Jersey's Anti-Bullying Law: Benefit and Burden
-
Some school districts are voicing concerns about law's intractable timelines.
- »Grades and Achievement Gap: Nation's Report Card Scores NJ on Both
-
State's public school students excel in math and reading, but wide achievement gaps persist.
»Lights to Stay on at Statewide Afterschool Fund-
NJ After 3's surprise reprieve by governor on eve of elections has some Democrats questioning timing.
- »New Jersey’s Residence-Only Law Worries Some Schools
-
NJ First Act aims to save jobs for residents but could backfire on teachers.
- »Legislative District 34
-
In the 34th, the suspense isn't so much what happens in the election but what happens once the votes are counted.
- »Cerf Assembles Expert Team to Review School Funding
-
Acting commissioner's dream team includes academics, researchers, and consultants.
- »Education Department to Set Up Seven 'Regional Achievement Centers'
-
Satellite offices will concentrate on bottom 5 percent of public schools.
- »Spotlight Profile: Roy Montesano
-
Part of a remarkable clan, the Superintendent of the Year discusses challenges, salary caps, and the governor.
»Afterschool Fund Falls Victim to Line-Item Veto, Battered Economy-
New Jersey After 3, which once funded programs for thousands of kids, to go dark
- »New Jersey Schools' Open Door Policy
-
With the state's Interdistrict School Choice program, Garden State students can become traveling scholars.
»For David Hespe, Return to Trenton Brings New and Old Challenges-
As former commissioner, Cerf's new chief of staff knows firsthand the value of patience and perseverance.
- »New Jersey Applies for $60 Million Race to the Top Grant
-
Funding would go in part to a statewide system for evaluating early childhood education centers.
»Unfunded Mandates on Schools Under Debate-
Little-known state council rules on school busing, anti-bullying next.
- »Latest Round of Charter Applications Filed with Education Department
-
In a field 42 charter applicants, some have been considered -- and rejected -- before.
»Newark Charter and District Schools Share Space and Visions -- But Not Technology-
Collaboration and cooperation are the order of the day, but some inequalities remain.
- »School Vouchers: Out of the Spotlight, Not Out of Mind
-
A slimmed-down bill -- and pilot program -- may resurface in Assembly during the lame duck session.
»Cerf Names Penny MacCormack as Chief Academic Officer-
New assistant commissioner served as assistant superintendent of Hartford secondary schools.
- »Charter Anxiety: A Suburban Malady?
-
As backlash grows in the suburbs, the reaction in the cities is more complicated.
»School Board Background Checks: Slow and Unsteady-
Program unearths few criminal records thus far, but stirs up formal challenge from angry board member.
- »Charters Continue to Stir Up Controversy -- in Senate, Court, and Home Districts
-
In the suburbs, experimental schools end up in court, as plaintiffs and defendants.
- »An End to No Child Left Behind Could Spell an End to Outside Tutoring in NJ
-
An NCLB waiver would free up federal funds for other educational reforms in the Garden State.
- »Learning Lessons from Green Schools
-
It's not just about energy. How can sustainability be integrated into the curriculum?
- »New Supers, New Approaches, New Ideas -- At Least That's the Theory
-
Superintendent salary caps are attracting a new class of applicants, but do they have the experience to get the job done?
»Norcross Captures Audience Attention with Education Agenda-
One day after Christie promises renewed focus on education, South Jersey power broker weighs in.
- »Podcast: 'Unfinished Business' is Keeping Christie in New Jersey
-
NJ Spotlight's John Mooney explores the governor's commitment to education reform.
»State Auditor Says Efficiency May Be Trumping Educational Need
at SDA-
Critics say report reinforces their claims that authority is leaving students stranded in substandard schools.
- »Agenda: State Board of Education
-
QSAC is still on the docket, but this meeting will also see the announcement of the NJ Teacher of the Year.
»Administration's New Message to Charter Schools: Quality Not Quantity-
With only four of 60 charter applicants approved, Christie and Cerf signal that the rules are changing for charter schools -- as are the politics.
- »The Hard Work of Leaving Behind No Child Left Behind
-
To qualify for a waiver from NCLB, Cerf and Christie must tailor their agenda to shifting guidelines.
- »Fine Print: Newark Charter Compact
-
A new 'contract' among charter schools stresses transparency and accessibility.
- »Underfunded Rural School Districts Seek Redress in Court
-
Bacon v. DOE hopes to follow up on Abbott v. Burke, this time for rural districts.
- »Legislature Passes Charter Bill, But Advocates and Critics Want More Changes
-
Parochial school conversion measure passes, although reception remains in doubt.
»Crafting an Accurate System for Evaluating Teachers-
Guru of teacher evaluation talks about the pros and cons of judging educators.
»Time to Get New Jersey's Teachers Off the Clock?-
Critics argue that it's time to rethink the rule that requires teachers to rack up 100 hours of professional development every five years.
»Newark Schools Start to Put $100 Million Gift to Work-
One-year anniversary of Zuckerberg largesse hasn't lessened the challenges in state's largest school district.
»SDA Finally Puts Two New Schools Out to Bid-
School construction agency still will exit 2011 without new projects in ground.
- »Getting Ready for Race to the Top III
-
The competition is leaner but New Jersey still faces tough challenges.
- »Fine-Tuning a Controversial Tenure Proposal -- Quietly
-
Sen. Ruiz, the bill's chief sponsor, schedules a series of private meetings with stakeholders and others.
- »Christie, Cerf, and Teachers' Union: A Fragile Peace
-
The administration and the NJEA aren't battling over Christie's teacher evaluation plan -- at least not yet.
- »State Starts to Consider New High School Test and Testing Contract
-
According to administration, negotiating and awarding contract will take better part of a year.
»Fine Print: New Jersey's SAT Profile, 2011-
New Jersey's overall scores steady or improving, but not everywhere.
- »Podcast: NJ's Anti-Bullying Law Being Felt in Schools
-
NJ Spotlight editor discusses the state's new anti-bullying law and how it's playing out in the public schools.
»NJ's Participation in Common Core Standards Sees Early Test-
One district’s changes and challenges start with earliest grades and simplest skills -- like counting.
- »Easing the Bureaucratic Burden on Public Schools
-
Christie and Cerf argue that student achievement is more important than complying with more than 2,000 pages of regulations.
- »Education Commissioner Refines the Rules for Charters
-
Increased accountability, broader student access top the list in Cerf's edict.
»Newark School Closure Sparks Statewide Debate-
Critics claim that building troubles – mushrooms and all – are yet another example of School Development Authority's inefficiencies.
- »Podcast: Back to School for Gov. Christie
-
Governor talks up his education agenda, admits some of it may have to wait.
- »School Improvement Program Needs What Money Can't Buy -- Time
-
Rescuing NJ's worst schools could take almost $100 million and several years to see real results.
- »Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights: Day 1
-
New Jersey schools have a tough new anti-bullying policy, but all the pieces aren't in place on the first day of classes.
- »NJ Education: What's Hot, What to Watch
-
Think the 2011 elections will take all the sizzle out of education? Think again.
- »Agenda: State Board of Education
-
QSAC is back up for discussion, with plans to streamline or possibly overhaul the district-monitoring apparatus.
- »Teacher Evaluation Gets a New Start
-
A year after Schundler firing, Cerf starts anew on pivotal reform.
- »Church Withholds Blessing from School Conversion Bill
-
The church favors school vouchers over a measure that could help keep some parochial schools open.
»A Snapshot of Newark's New School Year: Pivotal and Promising-
Expectations are high for the state's largest school district, now it's all about delivery.
- »Teacher Contract Talks: Slow Going, Small Raises
-
A third of school districts will be starting out the year without a contract in place.
- »Superintendent Survey Gives Low Grades to Education Department
-
From too much paperwork to achieving the core mission, supers are highly critical of the job the DOE does.
»Stymied Charter Files Suit Against Three School Districts-
Lawsuit could increase tensions between charters and traditional schools in suburban enclaves statewide.
»Cami Anderson: Little Time for Politics-
Newark's new superintendent maintains a rigorous schedule -- including working breakfasts, candidate interviews and community meetings -- while others debate her place.
- »Newark School Board Votes to Fight State Control of Schools
-
Acting commissioner Chris Cerf extends olive branch, willing to discuss "orderly transition."
- »Statewide School Survey Indicates Increasing Class Size Is the Norm
-
Even with a slight boost in state aid for the current school year, many districts say class size will still climb.
- »Anti-Bullying Law Starts for Schools Next Month
-
Administrators charged with implementing tough new Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights, from new definitions to new jobs.
- »Fine Print: PARCC Draft Curriculum Frameworks
-
Public comment period opens on national frameworks for upcoming New Jersey testing.
»New Jersey Begins to Venture Beyond No Child Left Behind-
As federal education secretary Arne Duncan announces NCLB waivers, NJ already looking at – and imposing – a few changes of its own.
- »Spotlight Interview: George Norcross
-
The recently emerged school reformer sits down with NJ Spotlight to discuss unions, Camden and charters.
- »NJ SMART to Track Students Through High School -- and Beyond
-
School data system to assess who graduates, who drops out, and why.
- »School Bus Advertising: All Wrapped Up in Red Tape
-
Four pages of proposed regulations for a one-page law help explain why NJ school buses have that bare look.
»Changing the Rules for Teacher Evaluation-
Thirty-one school districts and charters jockey for position in a state pilot that brings student scores into teacher evaluations. Here are three of them.
- »Website Spotlight: School Funding NJ
-
Senate Democrats launch website that takes the measure of state aid under the Christie administration.
»Newark School Board Meets in the Street-
Despite last-minute cancellation of scheduled meeting, some board members gather to urge the state to relinquish control of Newark school district.
»Newark School Board Weighing Next Steps In Fight for Local Control-
Acting commissioner's letter sets off firestorm of criticism about state's refusal to surrender control of New Jersey's largest school district.
- »Agenda: State Board of Education
-
Topping the list will be a proposal to trim back and speed up the state's current program for monitoring schools.
- »New Jersey Loses Out on $15 Million Federal Charter School Grant
-
Federal reviewers cite some progress, but still withhold funds for third year straight.
»SIG Grants Go to Nine of New Jersey's Lowest-Performing Schools-
Winners of School Improvement Grants are expected to make radical changes, at times dismissing their principals and half of the teaching staff.
- »Fine Print: How and Where to Spend $81.8 million
-
Elizabeth takes biggest share of the Abbott settlement, and makes big plans to remake its schools.
- »Education Commissioner Speaks Out on Public Radio
-
Acting education commissioner Chris Cerf discusses school reform, economically disadvantaged kids, teacher evaluation, and more.
- »Christie and National Expert Duel Over School Reform
-
Gov. Christie and Stanford University's Hammond-Darling present sharply divergent visions of education.
»Newark's Deeply Troubled Barringer High Awarded Federal SIG Grant-
A multimillion dollar School Improvement Grant will go to extending the school year and deploying new systems for teacher training and tracking student achievement.
- »Report on Special Education Oversight Comes With Warnings
-
State meets many metrics but falls short in two key areas.
»School-Community Partnerships Meld Academic Discipline and Social Services-
Geoffrey Canada, head of Harlem Children's Zone, shares the stage with Gov. Christie to announce a new community-school initiative in Paterson.
»Testing Erasures Draw Questions at NJ Schools-
Answers corrected on state tests prompt analysis and queries at 34 schools, including some of the Garden State's best.
»Most New Charter Schools Not Ready to Open in September-
Of 23 charters approved by the administration, only seven will open their doors this fall.
- »Time Runs Out to Use School Aid Windfall for Property Tax Relief
-
Administration deadline forces tax relief decision by tomorrow, many districts will take a pass.
»Lesson Plans of September 11-
A new curriculum guide explores how to teach more than just the day, from elementary to high school.
»The Man with the Plan . . . to Reorganize the Department of Education-
Four new assistant commissioners -- and a notable chief of staff -- will help acting Commissioner Cerf ensure that NJ's kids are "college- and career-ready."
»Christie Moves Quickly to Build School Board-
By losing no time in filling vacancies with his appointees, Gov. Christie is quietly transforming the tenor of the Board of Education.
- »For Administration, School Aid Equals Property Tax Relief
-
Governor's office "strongly encourages" school districts not to use funding to restore cut programs.
- »Agenda: NJ State Board of Education
-
A long time coming, Cerf’s reorganization plans go before the board.
»Spotlight: Assembly Speaker Sheila Oliver-
In an extensive interview, the Democratic leader explains why the voucher bill is going nowhere for the time being, and shares her opinions on charter schools and education reform.
»Race to the Top for Tots-
NJ vying for $60 million Early Learning Challenge, new Race to the Top program for preschoolers and kindergarteners.
- »Christie's School Aid Cuts -- And Adds -- Leave Districts Uncertain About Funding
-
School districts anxious to know how much they'll actually get and how they can spend it.
- »Fine Print: The Line-Item Veto Edition
-
The governor racks up more than 100 line-item vetoes, sometimes by just cutting a few key words.
- »Tiny Charter School Office Digs Into Mountain of Applications
-
Gov. Christie's push for more charters puts the pressure on education department's undersized office.
»Christie Cuts Nearly $1 Billion from Democratic Budget -- Line Item by Line Item-
Senate president characterizes Republican budget as "cruel and mean-spirited," vows to fight back.
- »Teacher Evaluation Pilot Program Prepares for Takeoff
-
Education department discusses program and participation with nearly 70 school districts.
»Democrats’ Budget Plan Richer for Some Districts than Others-
School aid in budget and millionaire's tax proposals ranges from crumbs to windfalls.
- »Now There Are Four: Assembly Speeds Two More Charter Bills Through Committee
-
Even if bills pass Assembly, Senate has made it clear it will take a much slower approach.
- »Package of Four Controversial Charter Bills To Come Before Assembly
-
- »The Millionaire's Tax Makes a Comeback -- as a School-Funding Vehicle
-
Surcharge on the wealthy would deliver additional aid to New Jersey's wealthiest school districts.
- »Class of 2011: Diplomas Still to be Decided
-
High school graduation requirements leave schools scrambling, kids wondering.
- »As Much as Money, Abbott Districts Need Spending Guidelines
-
Without state guidelines Abbott districts can't make plans on how to use their funds.
- »Newark Superintendent Takes a New Tack on How and Where Teachers Are Placed
-
Anderson moves to put administration's "mutual consent" policy in motion.
- »Fine Print: Assembly Bill 3356
-
Proposed measure would tighten many of the accountability requirements for charter schools, including rules governing enrollment.
- »Pilot Project to Launch Christie's Teacher Evaluation System
-
Nine districts to test evaluation systems, with conditions.
- »New School Reform Group Comes to the Table Very Well Funded
-
Better Education for Kids, or B4K, can dip into hedge fund money to help get its message across.
- »Fine Print: Senate Bill No. 2937
-
Proposed legislation would dictate sweeping changes to public employees' pensions and healthcare benefits.
- »Anderson Only Pushes Change so Far on First Day as Newark Super
-
Several controversial school closings are not part of the plan -- at least for now.
»A District in Transition Awaits Superintendent Anderson-
A slew of new charters, a controversial consolidation plan take care of the first two days.
- »OLS Trims $52 Million from Abbott Estimate
-
The Office of Legislative Services indicates it miscalculated costs of fully funding Abbott districts.
»Re-educating Camden -- One School at a Time-
Democratic power-broker George Norcross wants to see eight charter schools in Camden, and Gov. Christie has some ideas, too.
- »Waiting a Little Longer for Long-Awaited Tenure Reform Bill
-
Despite some favorable comments from both sides of the aisle, Sen. Ruiz's bill is still a work in progress.
- »New Safety Net for At-Risk High School Seniors
-
The Department of Education puts a new appeals process in place for students who don't pass the statewide graduation exams.
- »For Newark's District Schools and Charters, Peaceful Coexistence?
-
Newark public schools reach out to acommunity concerned about charters and traditional schools sharing campuses.
- »Research Spotlight: New Jersey High School Graduation Profile
-
New Jersey still leads the nation in graduation rate, but the scores tell only part of the story.
»School Voucher Bill Proves Political Opposites Can Attract-
The Opportunity Scholarship Act puts Gov. Chris Christie and Democratic power broker on the same stage and on the same page.
- »Amid Helicopter Hubbub, Christie Signs a Potentially Lifesaving Bill
-
Like most Christie press conferences, this was a mix of politics and policy, circus and theater.
»New Newark Superintendent Takes Quiet First Steps into Restive City-
Even before starting, Cami Anderson's doubts about alternative high schools in Newark captures the attention of potential critics.
»The Common Core: Coming Soon to a School Near You-
Expect to see major changes in what kids are taught, when they're taught it, and how they're tested -- long before full launch in 2014.
»Supreme Court Nominee Anne Patterson Exhibits Light Touch with Abbott-
Patterson tells committee she will not discuss cases before the court.
- »Agenda: N.J. State Board of Education
-
On the docket for the Board of Education's monthly public meeting: the likely confirmation of Cami Anderson as superintendent of Newark's public schools.
- »Legislature Gets a Look at the Ruiz Tenure Bill -- at Long Last
-
With filing, Ruiz's tenure reform bill joins two other prominent measures now under review.
»Race to the Top 2011: The Summer Sequel-
The purse is smaller but the odds are better, could this be New Jersey's year?
»Abbott v. Suburbs, the Next School Funding Struggle?-
Supreme Court orders more funding for high-poverty schools but suburbs look for help, too.
- »For Charter School Bills -- an Easy Time in Committee, a Harder Time in the Senate
-
The administration is only one obstacle to proposed measures, Democratic support may be elusive.
- »Five justices, Many Questions
-
Abbott ruling due today from short-handed court with disparate interests.
- »Court Orders Full Funding for Abbott Districts
-
Narrow 3-2 decision sure to spark off controversy and confrontation.
- »Website Spotlight: Taxpayers’ Guide to Education Spending
-
The education department puts new math to work determining district per-student costs.
»Sen. Ruiz's Long Study of Tenure Finally Coming to Fruition-
Chairwoman of Senate education committee says she'll file her long-awaited version of a tenure bill next week.
- »State Aid for Special Education: The Underfunding Continues
-
According to latest guidelines, districts will only recoup 84 percent of what's due them for "extraordinary" costs.
- »Fine Print: T&E – A Primer for School Improvement in New Jersey (1976)
-
A Colonial primer helps introduce the concept of "thorough and efficient" to local communities.
- »Local Say for Charters Continues to Dog Proposed Measures
-
As charters expand into suburbs, local districts want to approve any new schools.
- »A Charter Conversation
-
NJ Spotlight Roundtable brings together key players to talk charter school policy.
»What Newark Really Thinks About its Public Schools-
Newly released study discloses a complex mosaic of opinions and perceptions.
- »The Man Keeping an Eye on Camden Schools
-
As Christie talks about Camden possibly being next in his school reform push, a department veteran is in place.
- »First DOE Job Postings Hint at Restructuring to Come
-
Among the three listings, a Chief Innovation Officer to head up the state's charter school office.
- »Growing Tensions Over Charter Schools
-
Lawmakers and local residents want to know why they can't have a greater say about charter schools hosted by their communities.
- »Newark's New School Superintendent in Her Own Words
-
Cami Anderson says she'll be doing a lot of listening to the people in Newark's classrooms -- students and teachers.
- »Christie Administration Urges School Districts to Spend
-
With the deadline to spend ARRA funds fast approaching, school districts are being advised to use it or lose it.
- »Gov. Christie's Stance on Newark Takeover Stirs Debate
-
Does governor's unwillingness to relinquish control fly in the face of state's formal process on when to step in -- and out?
- »Cami Anderson's Almost Untroubled First Day as Newark Super
-
Looming layoffs, parent activists, charter schools and an unhappy teachers union are just a few of the challenges awaiting Newark's new superintendent.
- »Fine Print: "Alternate Route" for Superintendents
-
Changes in BOE administrative code would ease the way for school superintendents who do not have state certification.
»Evaluating School Principals: The "Other" Educators-
Gov. Christie has made teacher evaluation a hot-button issue, but his proposed changes will also affect more than 2,000 New Jersey school principals.
- »September 11 Curriculum Gets a Real-World Test
-
For NJ educators involved with a pioneering 9/11 curriculum package, the death of Osama bin Laden is more than a teachable moment.
- »Second Questions, like This Year's School Budgets, Post Strong Showing at Polls
-
Although only 11 districts asked voters to decide on second questions, over 70 percent of those posed were approved.
- »Agenda: N.J. State Board of Education
-
On the docket for the Board of Education's monthly public meeting: superintendent certification, key department personnel and teacher evaluations.
- »Garden State Voters Approve 80 Percent of School Budgets
-
Light voter turnout revives various plans to move school elections to a more auspicious date.
»The Garden State Goes for Local School Budgets-
Preliminary results show many school budgets getting the OK from voters, although a few cliffhangers are too close to call.
»The SDA Comes to Terms with Its Real Estate Shopping Spree-
With 365 properties in its portfolio, the Schools Development Authority has far more potential sites than it has projects. What does it do with the surplus?
- »Spotlight: Shavar Jeffries
-
Will the public face of the Newark school community -- and the perennial man in the middle -- still be in place after today's election?
- »Fine Print: Federal Waiver for Special Education Cuts
-
Federal agency gives New Jersey the OK to make a one-time cut of $26 million in special education funding.
- »Budget Spotlight: Livingston and Long Beach Island
-
On eve of local budget votes, a quieter mood after last year's record rejections.
»Charter Schools in Suburbia: More Argument Than Agreement-
So-called boutique charter schools are raising concerns about costs and specialized curriculums in some suburban enclaves.
»As Abbott Returns to Supreme Court, Familiar Faces Play Pivotal Roles-
Three judges and two opposing attorneys are central to the fate of school funding fight.
»Asbury Park School Audit Digs Into NJ’s Big Spender-
State auditor report finds plenty of room for improvement, from staffing to phone bill.
- »With Cap Adjustments, 69 School Budgets Going Over 2 Percent
-
Adjustments enable school districts to cover costs they can't control, like healthcare and enrollment.
- »State Signs on to Help Develop Tomorrow's Tests
-
New Jersey joins governing board of next-generation assessment effort.
- »Evaluating New Jersey's Teachers: A Mosaic of Practices and Processes
-
Homegrown evaluation schemes can be complex, comprehensive, and effective.
»New School Choices Give Students More Room to Roam-
State names 56 additional inter-district options, with openings for some 3,000 students.
- »New School Choices Give Students More Room to Roam
-
State names 56 additional inter-district options, with openings for some 3,000 students.
- »Gov. Christie Offers First Peek at Education Reform Bills
-
Seven draft bills tough on tenure, and even tougher on salary schedules and seniority.
- »Restored School Funding Cuts Would Replenish Far More than Abbott Coffers
-
Nonpartisan report says suburban districts could benefit even more than urban ones if state fully funds education finance mandate.
- »Budget Spotlight: Springfield Township and Franklin Township
-
Second ballot questions go for necessities, like a full-time kindergarten teacher or school bus drivers.
- »Controversial Proposal Moves Ahead, While BOE Delays Votes on Other Mandates
-
Administration still pushing to allow non-educators to fill school superintendent slots.
»Abbott Preschools Continue to Be Bright Spot-
Court’s mandates for full-day pre-K win both in research and politics.
- »Fine Print: Abbott Briefs
-
With the latest filings in the Abbott v. Burke school equity case, both plaintiffs and defendants are ready for oral arguments.
- »Christie's Tenure Reform Remains A Work in Progress
-
The governor's speech fills in a few details, but here are three unanswered questions.
»Is the SDA Getting Back into the Real Estate Business?-
The Schools Development Authority ponders what to do with 160 properties purchased for projects that are no longer on the priority list.
- »Anti-Bullying Regulations Caught Up in Red Tape Review
-
Christie's drive to ease rules -- and save money -- goes up against a popular law.
»U.S. Supreme Court Decision Could Help New Jersey's Opportunity Scholarship Act-
High court rules that so-called tax-credit vouchers can be used for religious schools.
- »Fine Print: School Red Tape Review
-
Will the new Education Transformation Task Force mean the end of QSAC and its dreaded 570-item checklist?
- »For Charter Schools, Applications Outpace Legislation
-
New rules governing charters promised by Gov. Christie and lawmakers slow to materialize.
- »Scarcity of "Second Questions" On this Year's School Budget Ballots
-
School districts appear very reluctant to propose programs that would exceed new 2 percent tax cap.
- »Standardized Design for School Construction: Cookie Cutter or Building Blocks?
-
The Schools Development Authority embraces modular design, but critics say it's slowing down new work.
- »Budget Spotlight: Hackettstown and Newark
-
In two corners of the state, budget pictures reflect a world of difference for their schools.
- »In His Own Words: Judge Doyne and his Evidentiary Opinion
-
As with form and function, it's difficult to separate what the special master to the Supreme Court said from how he said it.
- »Abbott v. Burke: Not Simply About Poor, Inner-City School Districts
-
The State Supreme Court's fact-finding report lists 205 underfunded school districts -- both urban and suburban -- far more than the so-called Abbott 31.
- »Jersey City Super Comes Up Against Christie Salary Cap
-
Nearly $70,000 separates Superintendent Epps' proposed contract and what the state is willing to approve -- at least so far.
- »First-Round AHSA Results Show Some Improvement
-
Officials say nearly twice as many students make the grade so far this year as compared with last.
»NTU's Del Grosso Back in the Fray-
Longtime Newark Teachers Union president rallies the troops against "barter" schools, but can he heal the rift in his own rank and file?
»Abbott Fact Finding: Christie Cuts Hurt At-Risk Kids-
Judge Doyne says as much as $1.6 billion needed to fully fund Abbott v. Burke formula.
- »Fine Print: List of State-Imposed Rules and Polices for Special Education
-
New Jersey's aggressive attention to special education means that the state is sometimes out in front of federal regulations.
- »State to Take Tougher Look at Graduation and Dropout Rates
-
Self-reporting of numbers, permitted until now, leave critics skeptical.
»"Dance of the Lemons" Keeps Ineffective Teachers Moving from School to School-
The administration's "mutual consent" would give principals the right to refuse proposed teacher transfers.
»The Search Is on for Newark's Next Super-
An ad hoc group of city and school leaders begins to review candidates for Newark school superintendent.
- »OLS Runs the Numbers on the Opportunity Scholarship Act
-
Non-partisan assessment bears out some of the fiscal claims of OSA advocates.
- »Hearing Sheds Little Light on How Schools Get on the SDA Short List
-
Two projects -- one approved, one not -- provide some clues as to what counts
- »For County School Superintendents, Room at the Top
-
An even dozen school superintendent slots are being filled by stand-ins or ranking staff.
»The NJEA, a Big Player in Local School Budget Elections-
For the past decade, the New Jersey Education Association has shelled out better than $1 for every $3 spent on local elections.
- »SDA Scorecard Raises More Questions About How Projects are Picked
-
Assembly education committee asks SDA head Marc Larkins to clarify the process.
- »Two Troubled Charter Schools Are Quietly Put on Probation
-
A letter of probation, rather than a press release, awaits charters teetering on the edge.
- »Cerf Starts Reorg with Charter Office
-
Revamped office to play key role in acting commissioner's and governor's plans.
- »Newark's Interim Super, Calming the Waters During a Troubled Time
-
Deborah Terrell insists she's an interim appointee, but others may have different ideas.
- »Fine Print: Charter Schools in New Jersey -- Interim Report
-
Charters or conventional schools? The latest report doesn't answer the question either way.
- »Newark's Angry Parents
-
Tempers flare over leaked school consolidation plan, while after 16 years state takeover still rankles.
»Five Months After It Was Formed, Teacher Evaluation Task Force Files Its Report-
Gov. Christie gets everything he asked for, as well as some unsolicited advice about challenges and obstacles.
»SDA Goes Public With Its New Rules: What Gets Built and Why -- and When-
- »Abbott v. Burke Fact-Finding Hearings: It's All Over But the Final Report
-
Legal joust between judge and state's lawyer closes latest chapter in debate over school funding.
- »Compare and Contrast Municipal Budgets -- Online
-
TownStats.org is assembling a database of every municipal budget in the Garden State.
- »SDA Slowly Inches Closer to Restarting Long-Delayed Projects
-
Vote today on 10 projects, but four times as many schools -- and
hundreds of millions already spent -- on hold.
»Randi Weingarten Shows Solidarity with Newark Teachers Union-
AFT president promotes strategy for streamlining tenure and improving teacher evaluation.
- »Doing the Math on State Aid to New Jersey Schools
-
NJ Spotlight's budget tool makes it easy to see how schools fared over two tumultuous years.
»Despite Christie’s Big Promises, Charters Still Face Challenges-
Charters, like public schools, would see increase of about 1 percent of overall budgets.
- »Fine Print: School Aid
-
The governor gives something back to almost every school district in the Garden State.
»Opportunity Scholarship Act May Leave Out One District
Where It All Began-
Longtime civil-rights advocate and voucher champion angered that Orange schools falling off list.
- »Christie's Budget Surprise: More Aid to Schools
-
The governor follows the unexpected with the expected: tenure reform, private school vouchers, charter schools and school choice.
- »Administration Argues That Federal Stimulus Has Helped Offset School Aid Cuts
-
At Abbott v. Burke hearing, debate over last state budget may portend issues in next one.
- »Room for Cuts Remain at Streamlined Schools Development Authority
-
NJ Spotlight reviews the authority's payroll to see where the money goes.
- »Reinventing Tenure
-
Acting Education Commissioner Cerf tells educators, "We have done a spectacularly lousy job when it comes to teacher evaluation."
- »Spotlight Q&A: "Thorough and Efficient" Education
-
A phrase incorporated into the constitution in 1875 proves to have great resonance and relevance to the current round of Abbott v. Burke challenges.
- »SDA Green-Lights 10 School Construction Projects
-
The Schools Development Authority is back in business, but what happened to the other 42 projects on its original list?
- »Fine Print: Religious Holidays in Schools
-
As New Jersey's population grows more diverse, the holiday calendar grows more and more crowded.
- »Abbott v. Burke Takes Up 135-Year-Old Dispute
-
Did Christie's cuts to state aid obstruct the "thorough and efficient" education mandated by the state constitution?
- »Abbott v. Burke in Suburbia
-
The latest Abbott challenge asserts that Christie's cuts in state aid shortchanged both suburban schools and inner-city districts.
»Spotlight Video: Isaac-
Newark mother shares her problems with Gov. Christie at his Union City town hall meeting.
»Union City Schools: A Test Case for Christie Reforms?-
As the governor and his reforms pay a visit, Union City's vaunted schools try to make their case.
- »Politics and the OSA Pilot Program
-
The Opportunity Scholarship Act aims to help failing school districts, but political bartering is helping decide which districts make the short list.
- »State Releases New School Data
-
Make sense of the latest figures, working with NJ Spotlight's updated School Report Card.
»Filling the Top Slot for Newark's Troubled Schools-
One day after Newark's superintendent stepped down, acting education commissioner Chris Cerf starts talking about the future.
- »Three Key Questions About the Opportunity Scholarship Act
-
The state's first private school voucher program is gaining backers, but several essential issues remain to be sorted out.
- »Superintendent Salary Caps: The Legal Limit
-
Governor Christie's salary caps are about to go into effect, despite pending lawsuits and public hearings.
»Feelings Run High as Opportunity Scholarship Act Moves to the Assembly-
Anathema to the teachers union, New Jersey's first voucher program is starting to draw support from Democrats.
- »Fine Print: Abbott v. Burke Hearing Orders
-
A pair of legal orders helps set the parameters for the latest round of Abbott v. Burke arguments.
- »Looking Beyond Educators for Prospective School Superintendents
-
The state Board of Education begins crafting guidelines for bringing candidates over from the private sector to serve as school superintendents.
»Cybercharters Come Online in New Jersey-
Two online academies are part of the current crop of charters. Both raise intriguing questions about what defines a school.
- »Teacher Contract Negotiations: Lean Times and Hard Bargains
-
State School Boards Association reports new contracts at historic lows, salary increases averaging below 2 percent.
»Specialization or Segregation? NJ's First Charter School for Autistic Children Already Faces Challenges-
Newark's Forest Hill Charter School pushes the envelope as to what charters can be -- and charge.
- »When Presidents Focus on Education, States Focus on Implementation
-
Now that President Obama has outlined his education policy, New Jersey and other states await the details.
»Doubts About State Aid, as School Budget Decisions Loom-
The budget process is just beginning, but public schools are trying to prepare for all eventualities.
- »Local Boards vs. Charter Schools
-
Communities -- especially suburban communities -- are looking to have some say over charter schools in their districts.
»9/11 Curriculum Nears Completion-
Lesson plans, study guides, interviews, photographs, survivors' stories -- and a child's doll recovered from the wreckage.
- »On Eve of Resuming Projects, Schools Development Authority Scales Back Staff
-
Long criticized for waste and mismanagement, SDA trims nearly 10 percent of its payroll in latest reorganization.
»Two Decades in the Making, School Voucher Bill Clears Big Hurdle-
Senate committee vote not just about voucher merits, but also recipients.
- »Spotlight Research: Assessing the Value of Value-Added Models
-
Judge teachers on how students do on standardized tests? That's the job of the VAM.
- »Latest Version of School Voucher Bill Heads for Senate Budget Committee
-
Backers say it has the votes to clear committee, but tougher battles await the controversial legislation.
»A Christie Doctrine for Charter Schools?-
The governor has big plans for NJ charters, but his biggest stumbling block may be a lack of cash.
- »Fine Print: NJASA v. Rochelle Hendricks
-
Statewide legal challenge to superintendent salary caps names acting commissioner of education Hendricks or her successor.
»Supreme Court Remands Abbott v. Burke to Lower Court for Fact Finding-
Justice's order appears to put burden of proof on Christie administration.
- »Star School Reformer’s Quick NJ Stop Leaves People Talking
-
Michelle Rhee's celebrity turn in Trenton, a statement of solidarity or a distraction from Christie’s controversial education record?
»Gov. Christie's State of the State Puts Education Reform Front and Center-
Charter schools, vouchers, and a public call for the end to tenure: Christie's push for change starts as early as next week.
- »Education Reform: Newark's Other Voices
-
Newark's other education non-profits stand clear of the shadow -- or glare -- of the Facebook Fund
- »Educator Evaluation Expected To Be Part of Christie's State of the State
-
Full implementation of teacher evaluation system could be two years off.
- »Fine Print: Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights Act
-
Christie’s signature finally in place, tough new anti-bullying law raises some questions about costs.
- »Same Day, Two Takes on New Jersey's Education Troubles
-
Supreme Court hears Abbott, State Board laments student achievement gap.
- »Christie Summarily Dismisses Seven County Superintendents of Schools
-
A six-sentence email lets superintendents know they're out of a $120,000 job.
- »NJ Education 2011: Whom to Watch, What to Expect
-
Five Garden State heavyweights who can alter the course of education in the coming year.
»Winter Reading Series: Special Education-
While it's easy to focus on how much special education costs the state -- some $4 billion a year -- it's critical to assess the quality of education that funding supports.
»Rochelle Hendricks: A Portrait of Professionalism-
While welcoming his new education chief, Gov. Christie spent almost as much time praising Hendricks -- "one of the jewels of my administration."
»Chris Cerf: In His Own Words-
The commissioner-designate takes a stand on school reform, accountability, economically disadvantaged students, teachers unions and more.
»Spotlight Video: The State of Education-
Five former education commissioners discuss the past, present and future of education in the Garden State.
- »Cerf Clinches the Commissioner Title in Second Round of Search
-
A finalist and favorite in last year's search, Chris Cerf this time around is expected to get the nod for the top spot.
- »Lawmakers and Lobbyists Alike Begin to Explore Tenure Strategies
-
Longer time to tenure, mentors, a streamlined dismissal process, and meaningful teacher evaluations are all on the agenda.
- »Ethics Commission Chastises Charter School Trustees
-
Reprimands for not meeting training requirements based at least in part on miscommunications.
»Solar Wins Voters' Favor for School Construction Projects-
Since 2008, voters have approved three-quarters of the construction projects that include a solar energy component.
»Disorder in the Court-
Abbott v. Burke is on the docket for January 4, while the feud between Christie and the Democrats puts the state Supreme Court itself on trial.
- »Website Spotlight: NJ Department of Education
-
The redesigned DOE website features a new look and a new focus.
- »NJ Education Commissioners Share Notes on the Job
-
Five former commissioners reunite for panel to discuss politics and policy.
- »Proposed Parent-Trigger Bill Adds School Vouchers to Available Options
-
Republican-backed measure is one of few in country that would let parents use vouchers to opt out of failing schools.
- »Tenure Testimony Reveals A Troubled -- and Troubling -- System
-
Only a few tenure cases are filed each year, but low numbers can be misleading about what really happens in NJ schools.
- »The Schools Development Authority, An Agency Under Construction
-
The SDA's new budget gets the OK, but still no word as to what projects will get the green light.
»Neighboring States Can Help Inform New Jersey's Tenure Debates-
"Tenure" isn't in the working vocabulary of teachers in Delaware and Massachusetts, two states admired for their public schools.
- »Buffeted by Tough Times, Only Two Governor's Schools Remain Open
-
A half-dozen highly competitive academic summer camps once served more than 600 students.
- »Christie to Name New Education Commissioner by Year End
-
The possibilities make for a crowded pack. Here are some in the running, past and present.
- »The Clock is Ticking for Teacher Effectiveness Task Force
-
Behind closed doors, committee reviews research and interviews experts, with draft report slated for March 1.
»Acting Education Commissioner Rochelle Hendricks: The Unanswered Question-
The acting commissioner is committed to the Christie reform agenda, but will the governor give her the title and the top spot?
»Spotlight Video: Mr. Christie Goes to Washington-
Governor addresses superintendent salaries -- and conspiracy.
- »Portfolio Project Lets First Graders Gauge Their Progress for Themselves
-
Encouraging young students to discuss their best work with teachers and families.
- »NJ Not Helping Itself With Charter Schools
-
Experts find state's policies and practices getting in the way of charter growth.
»Virtual Charter Schools-
Two proposals before the state Department of Education would establish online charters for dropouts and K-12 students.
»Gay Rights Group and Anti-Bullying Activists Find Common Ground-
Anti-Bullying bill of rights speeds through Statehouse virtually unopposed.
- »Christie Administration Advances School-Aid Arguments
-
Administration argues federal funds and gifts should be used to offset Newark's school-aid cuts.
- »Fine Print: Assembly Bill No. 406
-
'Model Contract' bill would furnish template for superintendent's benefits and perks.
»Spotlight: Campaign Manager-
PENewark's Jeremiah Grace is looking to learn how Newark wants to spend its $100 million.
- »National Report Card Rates NJ Schools
-
The scores are in for New Jersey's 12th graders, but what do they mean?
- »Has Governor Left Himself Open for a Legal Challenge of Superintendent Caps?
-
Legal questions abound as to how far the Christie administration can go.
- »"Parent Trigger" Could Restructure or Shut Down Schools
-
New legislation now being pulled together would give a simple majority of parents the ability to effect major changes in their kids' schools.
- »Tough New Anti-bullying Legislation Looks Headed for Approval
-
Measure to protect kids raises some tough questions that educators and legislators will have to work out.
- »More NJ Teachers Break $50,000 in Starting Pay
-
Even in tough times, first-year teachers continue to edge up.
»Dicing the Data on Charter Schools-
What do the numbers say about charter school performance? It all depends on who you ask.
- »Q&A Spotlight: Superintendent Headhunter
-
School board and salary are among a candidate's key questions -- as is location, location, location.
- »New Jersey Opens Up to Open Enrollment
-
New Jersey's new Interdistrict Public School Choice program should have a lot more buses rolling from district to district this coming September.
- »Newark's Students Speak Out On $100 Million Windfall
-
Instead of being told what to do, Newark's students are being canvassed on the best ways to put the Facebook gift to work.
- »NJ Teachers Remain Committed as Second Decade of Professional Development Begins
-
Professional development takes on new significance as teacher accountability comes to the fore.
- »Educational Facilities Authority Gets New Executive Director
-
James Poole brings wealth of public finance experience to new post at EFA.
- »Sloppy Bookkeeping, Errors, Plague School Stimulus Spending
-
DOE alerts school districts about monitoring results for more than $1.6 billion in federal funds.
- »30 Percent of State Public Schools on Federal 'Needs Improvement List'
-
As state and federal standards change, more New Jersey schools fall afoul of No Child Left Behind.
- »Christie Moves to Block School Districts from Circumventing His Caps
-
Do school boards have to honor salary caps that won't go into effect until February?
»Gov. Christie Stands Up for High Salaries at Schools Development Authority-
Governor claims SDA is in transition to a leaner, more efficient agency.
- »Are Charter Schools Really Better?
-
The state Department of Education admits charter school data is too fragmented to support overall conclusions.
- »With Few Shovels in the Ground, SDA Continues to Spend
-
Review of agency's $50 million budget reveals well-paid staff, with some salaries above $100,000.
- »Newark School Superintendent's Long Goodbye
-
As he serves out the last year of his contract, superintendent Clifford Janey's legacy can be seen in mayor's new educational initiative.
- »Fine Print: Superintendent Salary Caps
-
By capping school superintendents' salaries, the Christie administration maintains it can save $10 million a year.
- »Now Comes the Hard Part: Newark Starts to Consider its $100 Million Options
-
- »State DOE Prompts Schools Not to Ask New Students About Legal Status
-
Advocates say the state can do more to ensure schools don't block undocumented from registering.
- »North Brunswick School Superintendent to Head Education Effectiveness Task Force
-
Brian Zychowski to lead team tasked with devising statewide system for evaluating teachers and principals.
- »Helping New Jersey’s Homeless Students
-
The number of homeless students in the state rose by almost 30 percent last year, topping 6,500.
- »Outlawing Cyberbullying
-
Bipartisan legislation aims to stop intimidation and harassment via the Internet and texting -- but how far can it go?
»Church, State, and Charter Schools-
As an increasing number of religious institutions back charter schools, church and state issues may loom large.
- »Fine Print: Assembly Bill 3393
-
Contract arbitration has long been a thorn in the side of local and state officials, who look to this measure to level the bargaining table.
- »Abbott v. Burke Litigation Casts Long Shadow Over State Politics
-
»School Board Members Air Their Concerns, But Is Anybody Listening?-
Only one invited legislator puts in an appearance at significantly downsized annual conference.
- »Fine Print: New SDA Rules
-
Schools Development Authority proposal would let qualified districts oversee school construction projects.
»Mastery Charter School Crosses the River Into Camden-
Mastery ferries its 'No Excuses' attitude from Philadelphia to Camden, one of New Jersey's most troubled school districts.
- »Proposed Bill Would Use Teacher Givebacks to Help Buy Back Lost Positions
-
Teachers unions that made wage cuts and concessions could see that money returned to school budgets to help restore lost jobs.
- »Fine Print: Senate Bill No. 295
-
Proposed legislation would bar school board members from serving if they’ve been convicted for a range of criminal offenses.
- »Larkins, Schools Development Authority, Grilled on Long-Overdue Construction
-
Legislators want to know why 50+ planned and promised projects have yet to be built.
»Adding Alternative Routes to the Top for School Principals and Administrators-
Gov. Christie wants to build on NJ EXCEL to bring more strong leadership to public schools.
- »Department of Education Rolls Out New Program to Help At-Risk Students
-
Educational proficiency plan aims to remedy problems before they become incurable.
- »NJ Charter Schools On the Fast Track to Approval
-
An expedited application and approval process is drawing out-of-state charter school networks to New Jersey.
- »Teacher Seniority Policy Continues to Vex Administration Attempts at Reform
-
Four little words -- ‘last hired, first fired’ -- protect teachers, but do they plague reform?
- »New Jersey's Deputy Education Commissioner Announces Her Departure
-
At 75, Willa Spicer isn’t retiring, and promises to stay close to public education issues.
»The Newark Challenge: Solve for Per-Pupil Costs-
Determining what Newark spends each year on its students can depend on what’s being counted -- and who’s doing the counting.
- »New Jersey's Efforts in Insuring Children Look to Next Step
-
New report shows where New Jersey's uninsured reside, where to target.
»Spotlight: CEO, New Jersey Charter Schools Association-
Son of a Chicago union organizer, Carlos Perez readily admits that his background was a great preparation for his current career.
»Charter Schools Still Struggling, Despite Governor's Enthusiastic Backing-
New Jersey's charters face funding inequities, facilities shortages and sometimes resentment from suburban host districts – for starters.
- »Charter and Choice, the Next Piece of Christie’s Education Reform Agenda
-
Elysian Charter to host Gov. Christie as he fills in his school choice philosophy.
»Gov. Christie Addresses the Details of His Educational Reforms-
Suddenly the governor’s ideas are starting to sound almost mainstream, but implementation challenges remain.
- »Christie School Reforms Hinge on how NJ Judges its Teachers
-
Administration's Education Effectiveness Evaluation Committee gets its first few members -- and a start to the debate.
»Renegotiating the Newark School System-
Now that cameras are no longer trained on the key players, the hard business of negotiating the future of education in Newark begins.
- »Senate Hearing Raises Old Concerns About Charter Schools
-
Proposed legislation would increase oversight of charter schools while making it easier for new ones to open.
- »Fine Print: Senate Bill 2261
-
Proposed legislation would meld New Jersey’s nearly 600 school districts into 21 county-administered ones.
»What Would You Do with $100 Million for Newark Schools?-
NJ Spotlight asks a group of Newark leaders and organizers how they’d spend the expected $100 million gift for remaking the city’s school system.
»Almost 10 Years Later, Has No Child Left Behind Lost Its Bite?-
No Child Left Behind still labels schools, but educators are starting to question what those labels mean.
- »NJ Spotlight's School Report Card Goes Live
-
Introducing a graphical tool that lets you see at a glance how your school stacks up against the averages -- and other schools.
»SDA Cautions School Districts Eager to Move Ahead on Pending Projects-
School Development Authority says new construction may wait for 2011, hints at move away from early childhood centers.
- »Q&A: Assessing EduJobs
-
Answering questions about how the Christie administration plans to disburse $268 million in supplemental federal school aid.
- »Getting to the Bottom of the Race to the Top Fiasco
-
Senate oversight committee shows it’s willing to play the subpoena card.
- »NJ Schools Weigh Approaches to Spending Federal Funds
-
With $268 million in government funds due any day, districts wonder whether to restore staff or plan for future.
- »Revision of State Test Scores Leaves Some Puzzled
-
Few complaints after tweaked tallies lift pass rates, but plenty of questions.
- »State Board of Education Struggles to Redefine Itself
-
In the wake of the Schundler ouster, New Jersey’s Board of Education has been testing it’s muscle -- and its vocal cords.
»Gov. Christie’s School Reform Toolkit, Hammering Away at Teachers’ Salaries-
The administration’s latest legislative proposal would award the state veto powers over local labor contracts.
- »NJ’s College-Bound Seniors, 2000 vs. 2010
-
What's changed in 10 years? The College Board’s report sheds light not just on SAT scores, but on a range of data points.
- »Fine Print: Wireless Generation’s Race to the Top Contracts
-
There’s been no end of speculation, but what do the Wireless Generation documents really say?
»For Two National Blue Ribbon Schools, a Study in Contrasts -- and Correspondences-
A suburban NJ elementary school and a Newark charter share a prestigious national award and their unwavering commitment to all their students.
- »New Jersey Files for EduJobs Money, but Will All Districts Be Treated Equally?
-
Suburban organization says some guidelines could leave a third of New Jersey's districts out in the cold.
- »NJ Schools Seen Keeping More Special-Needs Students In-District
-
After a history of relying on private institutions, public schools appear to be reversing a trend.
»Hearing Sheds Light on DOE Processes-
Post mortem on Race to the Top reveals other woes.
- »Fine Print: The Race to the Top Collection
-
The five documents that rocked New Jersey education.
»Newark’s New Principals Go to Work-
Leaders like Erskine Glover may prove the lasting legacy of outgoing superintendent.
- »NJ's Plan for Federal School Funds Needs Approval
-
Will Christie administration’s proposal on how to distribute $268 million in aid get Washington’s OK?
- »Temporary Replacements?
-
Governor names Rochelle Hendricks, Gregg Edwards and Andrew Smarick to head NJ Department of Education -- but for how long?
- »Race to the Top Consultant Earned $500,000 for Two Failed Bids
-
State Department of Education discloses new information about Wireless Generation.
»Role of Consultant Comes to Light as Schundler Admits Error-
Brooklyn education technology firm hired to help Race to the Top application also overlooked crucial mistake.
»In the Wake of Schundler’s Ouster, Questions Arise in Classrooms and in Trenton-
With the education commissioner’s job vacant, there’s even more uncertainty for teachers and educators at the start of another school year.
»Schundler Firing Highlights Earlier Clash With Christie-
Prior dispute over teachers union and Race to the Top application may have cost New Jersey $400 million -- and Schundler his job.
- »Can New Jersey’s Educators Make the Grade?
-
Tables turned, public schools across the Garden State are told to disclose how they evaluate faculty -- and then there’s the little issue of posting the results online.
»Behind the Race to the Top Furor, Five Nameless Judges-
Reports from panel of reviewers show where NJ gained and lost -- and maybe tripped up
- »New Jersey Finishes Just Out of the Money in Race to the Top
-
Only three points kept NJ out of the winner’s circle, but a close review of its application reveals many categories where it came up short.
- »Christie Pay Caps Bedevil Back-to-School Hires
-
Millburn brings aboard two new administrators while struggling with unofficial salary caps and new rules regarding tenure.
»Fine Print: Diploma Rate for New Jersey’s Black Males-
Newark earns the very highest rank for urban districts in the country, with 75 percent of black males graduating in 2008.
»Summer Reading Series: School Choice-
Charter schools are catching on in the suburbs, while school vouchers are racking up more backing across the state. Stay ahead of these and other fast-moving issues with this special package.
»Summer Reading Series: School Funding-
New Jersey looks at ways to fix the school funding crisis. This special package of resources will keep you well-informed on possible approaches.
- »Teachers Union Looks to Go on Offense
-
At annual NJEA conference, the main focus is on how to fight back politically.
»Loud, Sometimes Stormy Hearing for Jersey City School Superintendent-
Standing-room-only meeting wasn’t just about Superintendent Charles Epps. It was a test case for the Christie administration.
- »With Federal Money, Newark and Other Districts See Chance to Reinstate Teachers
-
No guarantees, but infusion of $268 million could be in place by September and save 3,900 jobs statewide.
- »Fine Print: Jersey City School Superintendent Contract
-
The Jersey City board of education is ready to rehire Superintendent Charles Epps, but Commissioner Schundler, a Jersey City native, has expressed misgivings about the move
»Trenton Meeting Meant to Divine Secrets of Schools’ Success-
DOE summons leaders from 16 high-achieving districts in hopes of finding new models on budgeting and spending for education.
- »Last-Minute Federal School Aid May Be Too Late To Put NJ Teachers Back In Classrooms for the Fall
-
NJ is slated to receive $270 million in federal school stimulus funds, but distribution delays could mean that educators will not be in place at the start of the school year.
- »Ready for Its Closeup: NJ Heads for Race to the Top Interview
-
With millions in federal education funding at stake, Commissioner Schundler and team take state’s case to Washington.
»Spotlight: State Board President-
If his background in missile defense has helped him work through difficult situations with the NJ State Board of Education, Arcelio Aponte is offering no comment.
- »NJ's New Algebra and Biology Finals Get Put to Early Test
-
Students perform poorly on pilot tests, and state board worries what will happen when new end-of-course exams really count.
- »Unlikely Ally Supports ELC in Abbott Challenge
-
Well-off Montgomery school district, facing more than $5 million in state aid cuts, files amicus brief.
»Video Spotlight: Democrats Press for Family Planning Money-
More and more politicos are discovering the power of video press releases, and they're using them to get out more and more of their messages.
- »Changing the Rules on How NJ Educators are Evaluated
-
What does it take to decide how NJ educators are paid and tenured? Start with a 37-member committee.
- »‘Highest Achievement, Lowest Spending’ -- Administration Looks to Models in Funding Review
-
As directed by the state Supreme Court, the Christie administration is reviewing the formulas used to determine aid for schools.
- »Race to the Top Can Speed Change, But Change is Coming Regardless
-
Tenure reform, merit pay and charter schools are fast becoming the mainstays of tomorrow’s education policies.
- »Christie Releases Millions More in School Construction Funds
-
About $270 million is OK’d for 177 districts -- but districts in urban areas still wait for their share.
- »As Race to the Top Finalist, NJ Preps for Next Test
-
Governor and union still sparring as state readies team to make final push for federal funds.
»Newark and Glen Ridge: Different Routes, Same Road-
Separated by just several miles, disparate districts differ on terms of charter debate but share concerns over future of their schools.
- »Number of the Day: 253,684
-
The Great Recession is no more profoundly felt than by New Jersey's children,
253,684 of whom were living with families receiving food stamps in 2009. That's roughly one in eight children, or some 33,000 more than the year before.
- »Q&A: School Superintendents' Salaries
-
Can capping superintendent salaries save the Garden State $10 million a year? That depends on who's doing the arithmetic
- »Teaching Jobs Saved by Stimulus, But New Losses Loom
-
With federal funds largely spent and budget cuts taking effect, school districts statewide mull their options.
- »Cap on Superintendent Salaries Could Be in Place Soon
-
Schundler tells county officials to start imposing new limits immediately.
- »Spotlight: Superintendent Leader
-
The head of New Jersey’s association of school superintendents, when Richard Bozza says he relishes challenges and unpredictability he’s talking about his golf game.
»School Surprise? State Finds Stimulus Put to Good Use-
Review determines that $1.6 billion in federal funds has largely gone to staffing, training and technology, just as intended.
- »School Monitoring System Issues Grades
-
QSAC’s three-year review results in hard numbers for 576 districts across the state.
»State Faces Challenges in Implementing Common Core Standards-
Signing on was just the start. Next up for NJ: developing a matching model curriculum.
- »Another Administration, Another Abbott v. Burke Battle
-
The Education Law Center takes its epic legal battle to the Christie camp, arguing that school budget cuts are unconstitutional.
»How Do You Teach A Tragedy?-
Educators from across NJ have created lesson plans dealing with 9-11, but is there time in the school day to teach their curriculum?
- »Another Cap from Christie, This Time for School Superintendents
-
New plan would limit superintendent salaries to $175,000 -- just what the governor earns -- and could go as low as $120,000
- »Questions Come in Bunches on First Day of Cap
-
Convert to charter? Send students to Utah? Write to the Governor? School leaders across NJ contemplate new educational environment.
- »Cap 2.0: One Proposal Down, 32 to Go
-
Getting the legislature to sign on to Cap 2.0 was a long, arduous process. Achieving accord on the next 32 proposals doesn’t look much easier.
- »Voucher Bill Bogs Down in Both Houses
-
High hopes for rapid passage of Opportunity Scholarship Act brought low by competing interests and additional proposals.
»Will Cap 2.0 Make School Budget Votes Obsolete?-
Politicians on both side of the aisle question the need for school budget votes -- as long as the budget stays within the 2 percent cap.
- »Privatize Preschool Education, Administration Argues
-
Task force says private sector should play bigger role in public preschool programs.
- »Legislators Consider Cap Exemption for Special Ed Costs
-
School leaders, citing ‘extraordinary costs,’ call the issue critical as Assembly
prepares for Monday vote on 2 percent property tax cap.
- »Video: Putting Kids' Faces to Budget Cuts
-
Even as Gov. Christie restores some funding to after-school programs, those same programs are scrambling to make up shortfalls and keep their kids off the streets.
- »Test Says Three-Quarters of New Jersey School Districts Are Top Performers
-
Stellar results on the state’s Quality Single Accountability Continuum raise concerns over what’s being evaluated: compliance or education
»Cap 2.0 Would Put Even Tighter Lid on Property Tax Hikes-
Statehouse surprise could prove a tough hit for battered school budgets.
- »Follow Your Money, Right Into Others' Pockets
-
How much does your state-employed neighbor make? A new tracking tool from the NJ Department of Treasury might tell you.
»Christie Drops Demand for ‘Cap 2.5’ Amendment, and Now the Dealing Begins-
Senate President Stephen Sweeney is now 'more than willing' to negotiate exemptions and adjustments with the Governor.
- »Extension for Jersey City Superintendent Raises Flags at DOE
-
With the district slowly regaining some local control, school board's decision on Charles Epps could invite the state back in.
- »Troubled Opportunity Scholarship Act Still Hanging Fire In Trenton
-
Compromise appears triply hard to come by when it involves Democrats, Republicans and Gov. Christie.
»One District's Attempt to Assess the 'Cap 2.5' Consequences-
With the Governor seeing momentum for his property tax proposal, Marlboro schools wonder where they'd have to cut next.
»Christie-Booker Alliance Could Put Newark Schools Front and Center -
Governor stresses agreement he and mayor share on key areas of education reform.
- »School Vouchers Go and Stop in Trenton
-
Opportunity Scholarship Act debated in Senate, even if it can't make the agenda.
»Fine Print: Senate Bill, No. 29-
A closer look at the words that drive Sen. Sweeney's counterattack to Gov. Christie's 'Cap 2.5.'
»Spotlight: NJEA lobbyist-
The Statehouse face of what is probably New Jersey's most powerful union, Ginger Gold Schnitzer got into politics with Bill Bradley, the championship New York Knicks and ultimately a drive to do "important work."
- »Coming to a District Near You: That Other Choice Program
-
Inter-district School Choice Act has quietly redrawn school borders and may soon be an option for any district in NJ.
»From Senator's Old Neighborhood, Close-up View of School Voucher Bill-
Legislators get down to deal-making as Gov. Christie presses for passage.
- »Christie and Democrats Reach Budget Accord; Tax Caps Next
-
The budget battle almost over, Gov. Christie and Democratic legislators Square Off Over Property Tax Cap: 2.5 vs. 2.9.
- »Education Commissioner Redraws the Org Chart, Puts Top Staff
In Place
-
Schundler names Andrew Smarick to No. 2 Spot, big believer in school choice and fellow at conservative think tank.
»Defeated School Budgets Spared the Axe, After All-
Newly released district-by-district data shows limited cuts to 315 budgets rejected
by voters in April.
- »NJ Board of Education Adopts Common Core Standards
-
Vote sparks debate and drama as various factions take sides on specifics of national standards.
- »In or Out? Newark School Superintendent Waits to Get the Word
-
Superintendent Clifford Janey's contract says he must be told by September 1 whether he'll be working in Newark come 2011.
- »State Audit Raises New Questions About New Jersey's $12 Billion School Construction Program
-
Report says critical school construction put on hold to ensure every eligible district had at least one project underway.
- »State Appeals Court Clears Christie's School Budget Cuts
-
Court finds against Perth Amboy challenge to Executive Order 14, which allows administration to withhold aid from New Jersey school districts.
»Spotlight: School Choice Advocate-
Derrell Bradford says a scholarship to 'hoity-toity high school' saved his life, and carries a passion to bring the same chance to others through school vouchers. His second passion: video games.
»19th Century Jersey City School Waits More Than a Decade
for New Quarters-
Guidance counselors working in closets and a circa 1950 heating system are just two of the reasons that the principal and staff of Jersey City School 20 are tired of waiting for a new facility.
- »Abbott Is Back in Court and Beset By Questions
-
Latest filing prompts speculation about arguments, alliances and justices hearing the case, not to mention the eventual decision.
»NJ's Toughest Schools in Chess Game for Survival-
Districts bid for federal money to fund solutions to 32 low-performing schools, including—for some—closing. Newark provides a case study.
- »Gov. Christie Castigates State Supreme Court—On YouTube
-
Senate President Steve Sweeney characterizes governor's comments about naming a majority of the state's highest court 'scary' and 'very dangerous.'
»Can NJ Win Race to the Top Without Support of Teachers Union?-
Bold reform or union backing or both: Is there a formula for finishing in the money for Race to the Top?
- »AHSA Pass Rates Rise, but Thousands of Diplomas Remain at Risk
-
Schundler cites improvements before Senate committee, though some members express continued concern over controversial exam.
- »NJ Schools and Students Do the AHSA Scramble
-
Alternative High School Assessment scores and rules challenge educators -- and would-be graduates trying to meet requirements for diploma.
- »SDA Board Tells New Director to Move Fast on Construction
-
Schools Development Authority seeks action on projects that in some cases have been stalled for years.
- »Standing of Schundler an Issue After Christie Rejects NJEA Accord
-
Governor’s move on Race to the Top application raises questions on commissioner, programs and prospects of federal aid.
- »NJ Teachers Face Reduced Raises and Wage Freezes
-
Moves mark a pronounced break from the past as school boards seek to close budget holes.
»Spotlight: Dr. Budget-
As the finance guru of the Office of Legislative Services, David Rosen wears many hats and answers to many titles, including Dr. Rosen. Just don't expect the Rutgers' PhD to refer to himself by that moniker.
- »Policy and Politics Mark Race to the Top Accord
-
Compromises from the teachers' union and the Christie administration help turn contentious bargaining into 'win-win' situation.
»Christie and NJEA: Three Topics on the Table-
Tenure, merit pay, and seniority are the three main issues under negotiation in last-minute Race to the Top talks.
- »Lawsuit Could Test Christie's Budget Strategy
-
Perth Amboy school district challenges governor's executive order to withhold state education aid.
- »Christie Administration Announces New School Construction Grants
-
First wave of grants totaling $37 million will help fund more than $77 million in new construction—but some 50 projects in urban districts are still in 'limbo'.
»The Charter School Bret Schundler Built-
Jersey City's Golden Door Charter School was one of the first. It's faced administrative issues, financial shortfalls and some plateauing scores; it's also matured into a safe, supportive haven from a grittier city and its schools.
»Yea or Nay: NJ Seeks Friends for 'Race to the Top' Bid-
Christie wins Legislature's general support, but adds compromise and cash in quest for other backing.
- »State Officials Scramble to Address AHSA Issues
-
As many as 9,000 students could go without diplomas due to scoring changes in this year's Alternative High School Assessment. State officials are trying virtually everything to defuse the potential crisis
- »Pass or Fail? NJ Schools and the Nation's Report Card
-
The National Assessment of Educational Progress delivers so much data that interpretation is in the eye of the beholder.
»Spotlight: Christie's Communications Chief-
Maria Comella is a two-fisted Blackberry user in charge of the governor's press staff, who also helps Christie craft and deliver his message. She definitely can handle the heat; she fielded questions about Sarah Palin's high-priced wardrobe.
»HS Exam Facing Its Own Test-
With up to 8,000 diplomas in limbo, the revised Alternative High School Assessment (AHSA) test is getting a tough review from state legislators looking for answers. Extra tutoring, re-scoring, new rules for graduations, and even an appeals process: Will they be enough?
- »NTU Sticks to Own Path on Education Reform
-
Positions of Newark Teachers Union, such as support for merit pay, often put it at odds with NJEA.
»Voucher Bill Spotlights Private Schools-
Opportunity Scholarship Act proposal brings a crowd to Trenton and raises questions about how to keep tabs on private schools accepting voucher kids.
- »Number of the Day: 67
-
There are 67 charter schools in New Jersey, serving approximately 22,000 students. Nine more are in line to open their doors in September, according to the
NJ Department of Education. One school was closed by the state this year. In March, the Department of Education received 37 applications for new charter schools,
- »NJ's School Construction Program Gets Rolling Again
-
Marc Larkins, the new executive director of the Schools Development Authority, says recent infusion of $500 million has put the SDA back on track.
- »Second-Round Race to the Top Gets Off to Sluggish Start
-
NJ Education Commissioner Bret Schundler goes to educators for their support of his Race to the Top plan. Whether he'll get it remains a question.
»No Clean Bill of Health for New Jersey's Big Pharma-
Cutbacks, mergers, and layoffs; intense competition from lower-cost generics; and fierce rivalry from other regions make for a troubled prognosis for NJ’s big drug makers.
- »Link Student and Teacher Performance? Not Without the Data
-
Gov. Chris Christie has ambitious plans to improve NJ's public education. But the data to meet his goals is proving difficult to obtain.
- »Merit Pay Coming for NJ Teachers?
-
Education Commissioner Bret Schundler gives early look at how New Jersey aims to win federal education grants.
»Christie’s School Aid Cuts: A History Lesson -
Gov. Christie's proposed cuts in state education would total $1.1 billion, according to his plan. That would represent a change from three decades marked by consistent levels of state funding for education.
- »Christie's Supreme Court Nominee Reawakens Abbott v. Burke Issues
-
In his attempt to prevent the state Supreme Court from 'legislating from the bench', Governor Christie nominated Morris County lawyer Anne Patterson to the state’s highest court. If nothing else, his move puts Abbott v. Burke back in the spotlight.
- »Non-Partisan Numbers, Courtesy of the Office of Legislative Services
-
With cuts proposed in every department of the state government, legislators turn to the OLS's budget reports to help interpret and assess the numbers.
»Spotlight: Budget Chairman-
Louis Greenwald is interested in answers, and as chairman of the Assembly Budget Committee, he is willing to wait for them. A recent grilling of Education Commissioner Bret Schundler stretched to five hours. Greenwald may have lost his patience, but he remained impeccably turned out.
- »State Revises Scoring System, Thousands May Fail to Graduate
-
The state has been talking for years about revamping how it scores the Alternative High School Assessment. Now that it has, as many as 6,000 to 8,000 graduations could be imperiled.
»School Budgets Voted Down in Unprecedented Numbers-
An analysis of the state’s preliminary results showed an unprecedented 58 percent of budgets rejected yesterday; the proposed tax increases in the spurned budgets averaged better than 5.3 percent.
- »Three Towns, With Three Different Takes on School Elections
-
Elections in Bloomfield, Metuchen and Linden shed light on voters' feelings about the governor, the teachers union and their public school systems.
- »Emotions Run High On Eve of School Budget Vote
-
Gov. Christie accuses New Jersey Education Association of dirty tricks, including harassing
the Lt. Governor's children as school budget vote nears.
»Schundler Defends School Aid Cuts-
Democrats on the Senate Budget Committee fired away at Education Commissioner Bret Schundler about how Gov. Christie's plan to slash school funding would decimate schools and hurt children.
- »State Treasurer Gets Grilled on Gov. Christie's Spending Plan
-
NJ public schools are center of attention on first day of Statehouse hearings.
»Governor Squeezes Teachers for One-Year Pay Freeze-
Gov. Chris Christie amped up the budget pressure on local teachers and administrators and called for them to reopen contracts and negotiate pay freezes for school staff to help stave off layoffs and other cuts.
- »Program Cuts, Pay Cuts, Job Cuts: Proposed School Budget Offers No Easy Answers
-
Deep cuts in state aid for New Jersey schools has left many districts grappling with tough tradeoffs: Pay concessions from educators, layoffs or program reductions. In some districts it will mean all three.
- »Q&A: The Budget Shortfall and Your Public School
-
Putting a human face on Gov. Christie's proposed $23.9 billion budget for state public schools.
- »Poonam Alaigh One Step Closer to Health Commissioner Post
-
In her first lengthy comments since her appointment by Gov. Christie Christie, Poonam Alaigh said in her confirmation hearing that her top priority would be helping sustain the state’s hospital system.
»Marc Larkins Debuts at School Development Authority-
Marc Larkins made his long-awaited debut at the School Development Authority (SDA) on March 3. The former prosecutor is taking over as the SDA’s chief executive at a critical financial and political period for the authority.
- »Gov. Christie Shelves $3 Billion in School Projects
-
The new administration says 'No Go' to nearly $3 billion in school building projects. The governor indicates that no new contracts have been signed for at least a month, although a dozen current projects will be allowed to continue.
- »Schundler Grilled on Hot Topics in Education
-
Bret Schundler’s first appearance before the Senate on today ran the gamut of the hot topics in education, from school vouchers to school takeovers to how Schundler’s Christian faith will influence his school policy.
- » Gov. Chris Christie Pitches Austerity Education Plan
-
Gov. Chris Christie came to the heart of school-proud suburbia today to pitch his austerity plan for public education. The governor's appearance comes after he announced a $475 million freeze to state aid to schools, the first major midyear cut of state school aid in memory.
- »Numbers Offer No Solace in New Jersey Fiscal Crisis
-
A crowded Senate budget committee was the setting on Feb. 4 when David Rosen, finance director for the nonpartisan Office of Legislative Services, presented the latest estimates on New Jersey’s budget gap.
- »State Assembly Holds Open Mic for New Jersey Public
-
For five hours the Statehouse door was held wide open to let the public speak its mind about state government. More than 140 people showed up and had their say.
- »NJ School Groups Come to Trenton Looking for Answers
-
Under its new chairman, state Sen. Teresa Ruiz, D-Essex, the Senate education committee invited more than a dozen groups to testify, from large teacher unions to a small special education coalition.
- »New Jersey Finishes Out of the Running in Race To the Top
-
New Jersey has been rejected in its initial bid for hundreds of millions in federal Race To the Top school funding grants. The Christie administration blamed the state’s teachers unions for not getting behind the state’s plan.
- »N.J.'s clean-energy advocates fear job losses
-
Advocates of the Clean Energy Program, which is administered by the Board of Public Utilities, say losing the $158 million could result in lower grant and rebate amounts this year, endangering thousands of jobs and setting back the state’s solar industry, the largest in the country after California.
