Nutley Schools Propose Tax Hike Amid Cuts to Sports and Special Education
Nutley, NJ – The Nutley Board of Education proposed significant budget cuts during a recent hearing, eyeing more than $5 million in reductions for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year. The proposal, which includes tax increases, aims to address budgetary constraints through measures such as not replacing retired or resigned staff and restructuring services—specifically the paraprofessional program and special education resources.
The exact extracurricular and athletic programs facing cuts remain unspecified. However, the potential impact has stirred concern among parents and educators alike. One local coach voiced worries about the consequences of cutting coaching positions, stating, "This means taking away opportunities for our student athletes—opportunities for growth, belonging, mentorship, and joy."
The Nutley High School athletic director also expressed frustration, reminding board members of their previous assurances against cuts to extracurricular activities. He challenged the board’s commitment, saying, "However, they were still on the slide, so somebody’s not telling the truth."
During the meeting, a board member acknowledged the difficult choices ahead, accepting that the necessary measures would likely "not be popular" and could lead to anxiety within the community. He emphasized, "These are necessary steps to ensure long-term stability and success of our school district."
Concerns about the district’s financial decisions were echoed by local parents, with one mother describing the proposals as "disappointing." She added, “We pay a lot of taxes to live here. We take a lot of pride in this town, and watching them cut things one by one is very frustrating.”
The next Board of Education meeting is scheduled for May 19, where further discussions on the budget proposals are expected.
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