GREEN ON SCHOOL FUNDING

	News from Speaker Pro Tempore Green
	For Release:	Speaker Pro Tempore Jerry Green Housing & Community Development Committee Chair p: 609-465-0700 e: AsmGreen@njleg.org www.assemblydems.com
	March 10, 2017

Green on School Funding: “I Will Not Accept Getting Less than What Our Students Deserve”

Lawmaker raises concerns about impact of flat school funding in governor’s proposed budget on public school districts that are already struggling financially

            (TRENTON) – Speaker Pro Tempore Jerry Green (D-Middlesex/Somerset/Union) issued a statement Friday in support of Plainfield students who protested against budget cuts proposed by the school district, and reiterated that he would not support any budget proposals by Gov. Christie that would make the financial burden even greater for Plainfield and other public school districts.

            “I commend those students who made their voiced heard, respectfully and peacefully, about the impact these cuts would have on their education. The Plainfield School District is proposing cuts to plug an $8 million budget hole, that if approved, would have a detrimental impact on the quality of educational services these students receive. If this wasn’t worrisome enough, school aid remains flat in the governor’s proposed budget, meaning there might be greater financial challenges ahead for Plainfield and similar districts.

            “The governor has challenged us to work with him on a new school funding plan. I don’t know how long this spirit of collaboration will last, but I will do my due diligence to ensure that our students are not deprived of the resources needed to succeed. I will not accept getting less than what these students deserve.”