It’s time for all of us to become better acquainted with our upcoming elections. From the governor’s race to local school board candidates, education is a hot topic in Cape May County school districts and throughout the state. The decisions made at the polls in November will most certainly impact the education of our students.
In a recent gubernatorial debate, both candidates touched on the issue of school regionalization and consolidation. While both of these actions would involve merging of districts in some way, the manner in which it would occur is slightly different.
Regionalization involves a more limited, collaborative approach where two or more school districts share certain services or resources to improve educational offerings and achieve cost savings, such as sharing a regional high school.
Consolidation, on the other hand, is a more extensive process that combines multiple districts into one larger K-12 or all-purpose regional district, leading to a fully integrated administration and budget to achieve greater economies of scale and reduce administrative overhead.
Rep. Mikie Sherrill, the Democratic gubernatorial nominee, said during the debate that she would first incentivize mergers but added that compulsory consolidation was an option. According to Sherrill, New Jersey has more municipalities than California, and more school districts than municipalities, which drives up the costs for taxpayers.
Republican candidate Jack Ciattarelli said that he would not force districts to consolidate but would offer incentives for them to do so. He wants to overhaul New Jersey’s school curriculum with a focus on practical skills.
Both candidates were in agreement about the benefits of school choice, in the form of vouchers that allow students to attend in other districts, and the formation of charter schools.
There are pros and cons to both consolidation and regionalization. Both have the potential to improve educational experiences through expanded programs and enhanced facilities for students. Sharing resources, vehicles and equipment would provide a cost savings.
Cape May County Schools could conceivably be at the epicenter of changes made statewide in the next administration. Recently it was reported that Cape May City Elementary School and West Cape May Elementary School are the latest to receive grants to explore a merger. Together, the two Cape May County schools have just 241 students. These are all important factors to consider as you vote.
Another important ballot issue is the election of school board members. This November there are roughly 50 candidates running for a position on one of our 16 county school districts. Every district in our county holds monthly school board meetings to provide the public with information about what is happening in the schools.
I had the pleasure of attending four different school board meetings in September. Although each followed the procedures laid out by the New Jersey School Boards Association, the topics discussed were a unique reflection of their school or schools.
One of the roles of the board is to provide the community with information on events, school activities and curriculum as well as the nuts and bolts of the business of running a school. As a citizen, you can attend these monthly meetings. There is always an opportunity for public comment and questions.
If you cannot attend, there should be minutes available online following the meeting highlighting what was discussed and what actions were taken. The most direct route to access this information is through your school district website.
Take some time to familiarize yourself with the candidates running for your school board, and don’t forget to vote. Early voting begins on Saturday, Oct. 25, and ends on Sunday, Nov. 2. Hours will be Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. No appointment is necessary.
