Urges State to fully fund extraordinary special education aid for students in 2023-2024 fiscal year and thereafter.
By urging the state to adhere to its obligations under the 'School Funding Reform Act of 2008' (SFRA), the resolution seeks to address the existing shortfall in funding for extraordinary special education aid. Currently, the State's reimbursement for these costs is significantly below what is mandated by the SFRA, with districts only receiving about 71.7% of their entitled aid in the last fiscal year, resulting in a total eligible reimbursement of $585.4 million versus only $420 million appropriated. This discrepancy places added strain on school district budgets, making it harder to meet the educational needs of all students, particularly those requiring additional support.
Senate Resolution No. 25 urges the State of New Jersey to fully fund extraordinary special education aid for students during the 2023-2024 fiscal year and thereafter. The resolution highlights the financial challenges faced by school districts, particularly those with significant special education costs, which are crucial for providing necessary services to vulnerable students. Under the federal 'Individuals with Disabilities Education Act' (IDEA), there is a mandate to ensure that children with disabilities receive a free appropriate public education that addresses their unique needs. This federal act provides financial support but also places burdens on local school districts to cover excess costs, especially for students requiring intensive special education services.
There are notable points of contention surrounding the fulfillment of the extraordinary special education aid funding. Opposition may arise concerning budget constraints faced by the state or differing opinions on the prioritization of educational funding. Advocates argue that without full funding, the state's commitment to its most vulnerable children is compromised and risks increasing property taxes as districts attempt to cover the shortfall independently. Proponents maintain that stabilizing funding will not only enhance educational services for disabled children but also provide broader financial relief for the state’s citizens.
The resolution calls for immediate action to ensure that funding for special education is not only met but consistently upheld in future budgets. It emphasizes the essential role that adequate funding plays in supporting districts' efforts to educate all students and fulfill legal education mandates.