The School Budget Passed - Now What's Next?

Great News for Education in Morris County!  With the one exception of Lenape Valley Regional, the school budgets passed in all of the towns.  In Madison, the overwhelming Yes Vote (2 to 1) was refreshing given the loss that occurred last year.  I said it was great news, but that statement is dependent on your point of view.  Things certainly could be better if there weren’t so many cuts in programs that are slated to occur even though the budget was overwhelmingly approved.  Among some of the cuts are: the 4^th grade instrumental music program, several coaching positions as well as cuts in the staffing of other extracurricular activities (including 2 positions for the Musical). 

In speaking with many parents and receiving many emails pertaining to these cuts, I am looking forward to attending the upcoming BOE meetings, where I am sure many of these issues will continue to be raised.  I know parents are not going to be happy if the 4^th grade instrumental program isn’t restored; and I can tell you that I received an e-mail requesting parents rally to restore at least 1 coaching position. 

I know the BOE is asking for parents to get involved in a letter-writing campaign to the state legislators to increase our aid and the 2% tax levy cap, as mentioned in .  I wonder if there will be a line forming to join in this crusade.  I, myself, have submitted a letter or two and heard back from a few legislators, yet I am beginning to wonder if they will actually do anything besides talk.  We all know talk is cheap; I’m waiting for some action!