NJ School Funding Formula Threatens Layoffs, Programming Cuts for Some Districts

School districts and education advocacy groups across New Jersey are calling on Gov. Phil Murphy and legislative leaders to rethink adjustments to the state's funding formula for public schools. Two hundred districts across the state say they'll be forced into hefty layoffs this year if proposed state aid cuts go through. 

Many districts across the state will actually see funding increases from the state's proposed budget. But districts facing cuts are crying foul, and warning that they'll be forced to lay off staff and cut programs. Jersey City has gone so far as to sue the state, saying the cuts are unconstitutional.

But NJ Spotlight founding editor and education writer John Mooney told WNYC's Jami Floyd that the Democratic leadership is just bringing districts in line with the school funding formula that was passed more than a decade ago during the Jon Corzine administration.

"Eventually, these districts that have been receiving [transitional] aid are going to get phased out of it, and in some cases, it's significant — and if it's not this year, then next year you're going to start feeling it," Mooney said. "At least if they're going to follow the school funding formula as they've written it."