Governor Phil Murphy has signed the budget for the 2025 fiscal year, which includes full funding for the School Funding Reform Act (SFRA) and the state's pension obligations. The budget also incorporates a last-minute addition of $20 million for county college funding, restoring it to last year's levels. Additionally, it provides critical funding for the New Jersey School of Conservation and continued support to address educator retention and recruitment through climate and culture grants for schools and student teaching stipends.
NJEA’s officers, President Sean M. Spiller, Vice President Steve Beatty, and Secretary-Treasurer Petal Robertson, released a statement commending Governor Murphy and other legislative leaders.
"We commend Gov. Murphy, Senate President Scutari, Assembly Speaker Coughlin and other legislators for another progressive, family-focused budget that highlights New Jersey’s commitment to remaining a great place to raise a family and educate children," they said. "By fully funding SFRA – for the first time ever – this budget sends a strong message that children remain our top priority. While there is always more work to do when it comes to investing in our students’ success, this is an important milestone for our state."
The NJEA leaders also emphasized the significance of New Jersey's commitment to fiscally responsible pension funding.
"New Jersey’s ongoing commitment to fiscally responsible pension funding, after decades of neglect, sends a strong message to educators across New Jersey that our work is valued and that the state intends to keep its pension promises," they stated. "We are pleased to see that commitment remain strong and look forward to working with Gov. Murphy and legislative leaders to further strengthen our pension system by making it fairer and more secure for all public employees."
They also expressed satisfaction with the additional funds allocated for county colleges.
"We applaud the inclusion of an additional $20 million for county college funding," they noted. "That restores the amount provided last year and provides critical support to those colleges, which serve as a critical stepping stone into careers or further education for so many New Jersey families."
Furthermore, they appreciated the state's support in keeping the School of Conservation operational.
"We are pleased to see that the state will provide necessary support to keep the School of Conservation open," they added. "Every budget is a statement of values. This budget shows that New Jersey values public education, working families and the hope of a brighter and more secure future for all."
