Board of Education Action Meeting March 24, 2026

The Edison Township Board of Education held an action meeting on March 24, 2026, where the primary focus was on approving the preliminary budget for the 2026-2027 school year. The budget discussion highlighted a significant tax levy increase of approximately $28 million (about 12%), driven by state aid cuts totaling $9 million and increased contractual obligations. The board emphasized maintaining existing educational programs, including the dual language academy, internship opportunities, and afterschool activities, while addressing declining enrollment and class size management. Contract awards were planned for security, technology, furniture, building infrastructure, and professional services, with authorization sought for competitive contracting to procure health and risk consultants. Public comments expressed concern over the tax increase, potential staff reductions, and subscription busing costs. The board addressed these concerns by explaining staffing adjustments aligned with enrollment changes and confirmed that subscription busing would continue under the proposed budget. The meeting also included presentations on educational programs and student achievements. Motions to approve the preliminary budget and various agenda items passed, with some board members dissenting on the procurement resolution due to concerns about the clarity of the procurement method for extraordinary unspecifiable services.