Nutley parents demand answers on special education funding amid staff shortages

Concerns over special education funding and staffing dominated the Nutley Board of Education meeting on April 28, 2025, as parents and board members grappled with the implications of budget cuts on vital support services. Tracy Rafa, a passionate advocate and parent, voiced her frustration over the district's approach to special education, emphasizing the critical role of paraprofessionals in the educational experience of children with special needs.

Rafa highlighted the alarming trend of staff departures, questioning how the district plans to attract quality educators when support roles are consistently targeted for cuts. "Our paras are the most important part of our child's day," she stated, underscoring the personal impact of these changes on her own children, one of whom has been in the ABA program since preschool. Her call for leadership and accountability resonated with many in attendance, as she urged the board to prioritize the needs of vulnerable students.

The discussion turned to the financial aspects of special education funding, with board members revealing that the district receives approximately $9.1 million from the state for special education services. However, the complexities of state aid distribution left many questions unanswered. Rafa pressed for clarity on how much funding is allocated per student, but officials struggled to provide a straightforward answer, citing the convoluted nature of state funding formulas.

Board members acknowledged that Nutley's special education enrollment exceeds county and state averages, complicating funding efforts. "We're not getting fully funded for that," one member noted, emphasizing ongoing advocacy for increased state support. The projected special education budget for the upcoming year stands at $18.6 million, but concerns linger about how effectively these funds are utilized, particularly in light of staffing shortages.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency of addressing these issues was palpable. Parents like Rafa are determined to ensure that the needs of special education students are met, calling for transparency and action from the board. The future of Nutley's special education program hangs in the balance, with advocates urging leaders to prioritize the well-being of all students.