Matawan-Aberdeen School District Survey Open Until Sept. 25

MATAWAN-ABERDEEN, NJ — The Matawan-Aberdeen Regional School District is inviting all community members to complete a brief survey to help shape the future of the school district, and inform the district's long-range planning.

This includes discussions about a potential bond referendum next year. That means the school district may borrow money to make certain capital improvements, and property taxes will likely go up to help pay for it.

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The survey will remain open until Friday, Sept. 25: English and Spanish.

The survey is part of the district's long-range planning process to evaluate needs and determine whether a bond referendum should be considered to fund future improvements. The district is also working with an architectural firm to conduct a comprehensive assessment of all school facilities and identify current and future project areas.

No final project list, cost estimate, financing plan or referendum question has been determined or approved.

"This community engagement process is about more than facilities," said Superintendent Dr. Nelyda Perez. "It is an opportunity to identify strategic improvements that can enhance teaching and learning, expand opportunities for students, support student success, strengthen safety and security, and ensure our schools are prepared to meet the evolving needs of students and staff for years to come."

Throughout this process, the Board of Education and district administration remain committed to fiscal responsibility while maximizing available state aid to offset local costs. If a referendum is pursued, renovation projects may qualify for state funding, which would reduce the local share of construction costs.

The timing of this planning also presents a unique opportunity. The district is nearing the end of payments on debt from a previous bond referendum. Timing new borrowing as existing debt declines may help reduce the tax impact of a potential referendum.

"The Board of Education is committed to being thoughtful stewards of taxpayer dollars, and that starts with listening to our community," said MARSD school board President Sheetal Werneke. "To determine the most responsible path forward, it's important to evaluate how best to both preserve and enhance our schools, so they remain well-positioned to serve the community for years to come. The survey helps us understand community priorities and where residents believe investments should be made as part of this early planning process."

After the survey closes, the school board and administration will carefully review all responses. The community will be regularly updated on next steps.