Budget crunch could stunt school choice program’s growth
New Jersey’s public school choice program has grown in popularity since it became permanent in 2010 but its supporters say a budget crunch could stall continued growth.
The problem is money for the program comes out of the general fund. That means if the school choice program gets a boost then others take a cut.
Lawmakers will be considering the program during budget hearings later this month.
Boosters say restructuring how aid is delivered to schools could help make funding more fair.
Gov. Chris Christie is proposing a slight funding increase for 2016 but long-term changes to establish a dedicated funding source are murky.
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