TRENTON, NJ — The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) Division of Local Government Services (DLGS) has awarded grants to five school districts as part of the School Regionalization Efficiency Program (SREP). This initiative supports feasibility studies to explore the potential benefits of merging school districts or implementing shared services with neighboring communities.
Acting Governor Tahesha Way highlighted the grants as a critical step toward maintaining academic excellence while reducing costs. “This funding allows our nation-leading public school districts to examine ways to reduce costs while maintaining the same level of academic excellence of our students,” she said.
The program, established by legislation signed in January 2022, aims to explore ways to achieve cost savings and efficiencies through regionalization, which could lead to improved educational opportunities and enhanced facilities. “Regionalization can pave the way for new and expanded courses, extracurricular programs, and enhanced facilities, all while making efficient use of taxpayer dollars,” said Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suárez.
Kevin Dehmer, Acting Commissioner of Education, described SREP as an innovative approach to developing new educational opportunities and achieving cost savings. The program provides a practical experience for districts considering regionalization.
The grants, ranging from $75,000 to $135,000, were awarded to:
- Logan Township Board of Education: $75,000
- Watchung Hills Regional High School: $135,000
- Central Regional Board of Education: $130,000
- Holland Township School: $118,000
- Wallkill Regional Board of Education: $123,900
These studies will assess various factors including enrollment trends, facility usage, administrative staffing, and diversity enhancement among others. Upon completion, the school districts are expected to submit a final report with recommendations and a regionalization implementation plan.
For more information on the School Regionalization Efficiency Program and other services offered by the DCA, visit their official website.
