Washington Township Board faces criticism over budget cuts and special education needs

The Washington Township Public Schools Board of Education meeting on April 29, 2025, highlighted significant concerns regarding the district's budget, special education funding, and the state of middle school sports programs.

A key discussion point was the $9 million allocated for tuition, particularly for sending special education students out of the district. Board members and community members questioned whether investing this amount in local resources could better serve these students within the district. Concerns were raised about the long-term implications of increasing taxes and reducing staff and extracurricular activities, with one resident expressing frustration over the board's ongoing conflicts and perceived unethical practices.

The conversation also touched on the grading policy, with calls for restoring the grading floor to a more acceptable standard. Some educators supported this change, arguing that it would better uphold Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and support students needing additional help.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the status of middle school sports programs, with a former teacher and parent questioning which sports would be cut and emphasizing the importance of these programs for student engagement and equity. The lack of middle school sports compared to neighboring districts was noted as a potential factor in families choosing to leave the area.

In response to these concerns, district officials acknowledged the challenges of maintaining specialized programs and the need for more staff to support students with unique educational needs. They emphasized ongoing efforts to increase in-district programming and the importance of community input in shaping future decisions.

The meeting underscored the community's desire for transparency and effective solutions to enhance educational resources and support for all students in Washington Township.