2024 Intern Spotlight - Garden State Initiative

2024 Intern Spotlight

Education, Energy, Public Spending

2024 Intern Spotlight

November 1, 2024

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New Jersey’s Approach to Educational Funding Formula Review

Alexander M. Randall, University of California – Irvine

New Jersey’s educational funding formula and structure was largely established under the School Funding Reform Act (SFRA) in 2008. The formula allocates a base-per-pupil amount that changes regularly, and then allocates a small proportion of additional aid to schools based on their estimated student population of low-income, ESL (English Second Language) learning, or disabled students.

 

Overhaul the School Funding Formula

Brad Derfner, Georgetown University

New Jersey’s school funding crisis has escalated to a boiling point, and it’s not looking pretty. As state funding cuts have recently been enacted, impacting up to 140 districts around the state, the sobering reality is setting in, with some schools now considering cutting sports programs, laying off long-time, beloved teachers, and squeezing even more students into overcrowded classrooms.

 

SMRs: Powering NJ Progress

Elle Nathan, American University

New Jersey, known for its dense population and significant industrial activity, faces increasing energy demands and environmental challenges. To help address the climate crisis, Governor Murphy set a goal for the state to reach 100% clean energy by 2035.

 

Hit the Brakes on Murphy’s Carbon Neutral Goals

Jonah Horne, College of William & Mary

2035 is just 11 years away, and by then, I’ll be 30 years old. If all goes according to plan, I’ll be juggling a career, a marriage, and maybe even a couple of kids. While I’m still trying to wrap my head around what my own future holds, Governor Murphy seems to have no trouble envisioning his.