Residency Task Force Launched In Bensalem Schools

BENSALEM TOWNSHIP, PA — After a "severe financial crisis" that led to a major budget deficit, the Bensalem Township School District is trying to move forward with more transparency.

The school district is forming a residency task force to "protect student resources and strengthen fiscal stewardship.”

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School officials said the district is taking proactive steps to ensure that every available resource is reserved for students who legally reside within the district.

The Residency Task Force will serve as a cross-departmental initiative dedicated to reviewing residency concerns, strengthening enrollment verification processes, and ensuring that district-funded educational services are provided only to eligible resident students.

"Every student deserves access to an outstanding education, and every taxpayer deserves confidence that district resources are being used appropriately," said Interim Schools Superintendent Victoria Velazquez. "When individuals attend our schools without legally residing in Bensalem, it places additional strain on our classrooms, transportation, staffing, and educational programs. This initiative is about responsible stewardship of public resources while protecting opportunities for the students and families who call Bensalem home."

She said the task force will review residents' concerns through established legal and administrative procedures, while ensuring that every report is handled confidentially, fairly, and respectfully.

The district is asking community members to partner in this effort.

Residents, staff members, and families who have credible information regarding potential residency violations are encouraged to confidentially submit information through the district's residency tip line at residencytip@bensalemsd.org.

Every report will be reviewed by the Residency Task Force in accordance with district policy and applicable Pennsylvania residency laws.

While the overwhelming majority of families follow residency requirements, school officials said that even a small number of ineligible enrollments can have a meaningful financial impact, particularly during a period of budget constraints.

The Residency Task Force is one component of the district's broader commitment to financial responsibility and operational efficiency as it works to preserve programs and services for students.

"We all share the responsibility of protecting the educational opportunities available to Bensalem children," Velazquez added. "By working together as a community, we can help ensure that every dollar intended for our students remains invested in their success."

The accompanying flyer, "Keeping Our Schools Strong," is being shared throughout the community and is also available on the district's website.

(Bensalem Township School District)