Lacey Township community rallies against proposed cuts to sports and extracurricular activities

The Lacey Township School Board meeting held on April 19, 2025, focused on pressing budget concerns that could lead to significant cuts in extracurricular programs, including sports and arts. The meeting was marked by passionate pleas from community members, including students, parents, and teachers, who expressed deep concern over the potential impact of these cuts on the educational environment and community spirit.

The meeting opened with a series of emotional testimonies highlighting the importance of sports and extracurricular activities in students' lives. One speaker emphasized that cutting these programs would not only affect students' futures but could also lead to a decline in community vibrancy. The speaker warned that families might seek alternatives elsewhere if the school district fails to provide adequate opportunities for their children.

John Sotelo, a community member, recounted previous efforts to address budget issues, noting a 9.9% tax increase last year that was necessary to maintain programs and staff. He criticized the current proposal of a 14.24% tax increase as unrealistic for many families, while also expressing disbelief at the suggestion of eliminating all extracurricular activities.

Students also voiced their concerns, with one high school student stating that the heart of the school lies in its clubs and sports, warning that attendance would plummet if budget cuts were enacted. Another student shared that many peers were considering transferring to other schools if the cuts proceeded, highlighting the potential for a significant loss of enrollment.

Rhiannon Mendez, a teacher and parent, pointed out the broader implications of the budget cuts, noting that they reflect a systemic issue of underfunding in New Jersey schools. She urged community members to engage with state representatives to advocate for better funding solutions.

Several speakers proposed alternative solutions to budget cuts, including community fundraising and advocacy efforts to push back against state funding reductions. They emphasized the need for collaboration among community members to find viable solutions without sacrificing essential programs.

The meeting concluded with a call for unity and action, as community members were encouraged to participate in upcoming state meetings to voice their concerns and advocate for the future of Lacey Township schools. The overarching sentiment was clear: the community must come together to ensure that students have access to the programs that enrich their education and foster personal growth.