Montgomery community urges school board to approve tax increase for education funding

The Montgomery Township School District Board of Education meeting on April 29, 2025, highlighted critical discussions surrounding the district's budget and its implications for local education. Community members voiced strong support for increased funding, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high-quality educational services for students.

Several speakers, including parents and educators, underscored the value of investing in the school system. One parent passionately argued that the community must prioritize children's education, stating, "If we truly value our children, we will vote yes for all the money we can raise." This sentiment was echoed by others who expressed concern over potential cuts to essential services, which could lead to larger class sizes and diminished educational support.

Hope Caldwell, a parent of eighth-grade twins, shared her personal experience with service cuts that affected her children’s education. She highlighted the importance of maintaining adequate staffing and resources, warning that failing to support the budget could lead to long-term negative consequences for the district. Caldwell urged the board to consider the broader impact of their decisions, stating, "The damage will be done, and not just to the kids that are currently enrolled."

Henry Goodhue, representing the Somerset County Education Association, cautioned the board against making short-sighted budget cuts, sharing a cautionary tale from his own district where significant job losses led to larger class sizes and reduced educational quality. He emphasized that every dollar invested in education is an investment in the community's future.

Recent graduates also weighed in, with one former student attributing his academic success to the quality of education received in Montgomery. He warned that cuts to the budget could harm property values, as the school system is a key factor in attracting families to the area.

The meeting concluded with a clear call to action from multiple speakers urging the board to adopt the proposed budget option that would ensure continued support for educational programs. As the board prepares to make its decision, the community remains hopeful that the value placed on education will guide their choices, ensuring that Montgomery Township continues to provide a robust learning environment for all students.