Woodbridge Board hears 2026–27 budget overview; committee recommendations adopted

At a public finance meeting on May 7, the Woodbridge Township Board of Education heard a presentation on the proposed 2026–27 budget and approved the finance committee’s recommendations.

Dr. Massimino presented an overview of revenues and expenditures, saying the two most significant budget drivers are the local tax levy and state aid. He told the board “our local tax impact, this year, we will see an increase of a $197,” and noted the presentation did not specify the tax base to which that figure applies. He highlighted cost pressures including a negotiated salary increase of 3.38%, “over 8%” increases in health benefits, and more than a 13% rise in out-of-district tuition. Transportation costs, a shared custodial contract with the town and utilities (noted up approximately 10%) were also cited as drivers. “This is, in my opinion, one of the most important slides of the presentation,” Dr. Massimino said while reviewing expenditure drivers.

The presentation listed new and continued programs the district plans to support: a transitional kindergarten class, two additional autism programs, continuation of high-impact tutoring funded by a grant, expanded translation and interpretation services, curriculum updates tied to the New Jersey student learning standards including a cursive-writing component, enhancements to reading and AP curricula, and a new data-collection system for speech-language services and counselors. On facilities and capital work, Dr. Massimino reported the Avenue 4 and 5 project is wrapping up, and the presentation referenced a planned new school in “Hopewellon” to be funded with PILOT payments; the district also listed replacements and renovations at Colonial High School, Woodbridge High School and Woodbridge Middle School, and technology investments including network-switch upgrades, cybersecurity work and continued rollout of 1:1 Chromebooks.

The board first voted to adopt the finance and insurance committee recommendations (the committee presented three items). The motion was taken by roll call and recorded affirmative responses from the members called; the motion carried. The Chair then opened public comment; no members of the public spoke. The meeting concluded after a motion to adjourn carried by voice vote.

The board is scheduled to consider final adoption of the 2026–27 budget at a full board meeting next week at Brush Street School Number 11 at 6:00 p.m.