Ready to Assist in Doing Better for the Kids
Posted by Dr. Richard G. Bozza on 11/9/2009 2:00:00 PM
Best wishes and congratulations are the order of the day for Incoming New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, New Jersey’s First Lieutenant Governor Kim Guadagno and the members of the New Jersey Assembly.
Speaking before a joint September meeting of the NJASA Executive Committee and NJASA County Affiliate Presidents, then Candidate Christie expressed concern that the “Trenton establishment” was not the appropriate entity to chart the course for school consolidation. A decision of that magnitude should be made at the local level. He added if the local level decides to incorporate various items within the school district and is agreeable to incurring the expenditures – it is their responsibility. Christie added these decisions would then eliminate opportunities for property tax complaints and requests for financial assistance from Trenton.
The former U. S. Attorney for New Jersey noted the new funding formula was a step in the right direction and that the formula does not go far enough to address the state’s property tax concerns. Candidly, he admitted there is “no silver bullet” to fix New Jersey’s persistent property tax dilemma. He recognized that the new funding formula is not funded at 100% and acknowledged the level of funding is an issue that necessitates a solution. He commented the path to turn this situation around will require frank conversations, citizen involvement and bi-partisan support of the New Jersey Legislature.
His prevailing message at our Association’s September meeting was, "I am here to listen” and build a relationship of trust and credibility with NJASA. The ultimate goal of this affiliation according to the Incoming Governor is to do better for the kids and NJASA concurs with this statement.
We, the New Jersey Association of School Administrators (NJASA), an organization of chief education officers and school administrators representing 593 operating school districts in New Jersey’s 21 counties, stand ready to work with newly elected statewide representatives to assure enhancements and improvements to the quality of education and educational services provided to the children of New Jersey.
Collectively, the Association’s membership offers a wealth of knowledge that moves education forward for the betterment of children. The attributes of the chief education officers and school leaders can be most instrumental in assisting the Christie’s Administration goal of doing better for the kids.