For over a decade, Jersey City's public schools have faced severe funding shortages, undermining the quality of education for thousands of students. Despite Governor Phil Murphy's assurances of equitable funding, his administration's policies have exacerbated these issues. The introduction of S2 funding reform in 2018 eliminated crucial adjustment aid and left a significant gap in school infrastructure funding. As a result, Jersey City has been grappling with overcrowded classrooms, outdated facilities, and insufficient resources. In response, the Jersey City Public Schools filed a $2.1 billion lawsuit against the state in 2019, challenging the unconstitutional underfunding that has persisted since 2009.

The Impact of S2 Funding Reform on Jersey City Schools

Governor Murphy's administration introduced S2 funding reform in 2018, claiming it would ensure fair distribution of funds across all districts. However, this policy had dire consequences for Jersey City's schools. By eliminating adjustment aid mandated by the Abbott law, the reform created a substantial financial shortfall for the district. Since 2009, Jersey City has experienced chronic underfunding, accumulating to about $1 billion by 2019. S2 further cut an additional $270 million annually from Jersey City's budget, deepening the crisis. This reduction in funding has left the city struggling to provide adequate resources for its students.

The impact of S2 on Jersey City's educational system has been devastating. Classrooms are overcrowded, and facilities remain outdated due to a lack of investment. The Schools Development Authority budget, essential for maintaining school infrastructure, has received no funding, leaving a $1.1 billion gap. To compensate for the loss of adjustment aid, Murphy introduced a payroll tax in Jersey City. However, this measure has only generated around $100 million per year, barely addressing the deficit. Consequently, Jersey City's schools continue to suffer from inadequate resources, hindering the provision of quality education.

The Legal Battle for Educational Equity

In April 2019, Jersey City Public Schools initiated a $2.1 billion lawsuit against the state, challenging the prolonged underfunding that has affected the district for over a decade. The lawsuit highlights the violation of the New Jersey Constitution, which mandates a thorough and efficient system of free public schools. Since 2019, the case has been progressing through the courts, with depositions from officials in early 2025. The legal proceedings underscore the state's failure to meet its constitutional obligations and the need for accountability.

The lawsuit not only seeks to address the immediate financial shortfalls but also aims to secure long-term equitable funding for Jersey City's schools. For years, residents have endured the consequences of underfunding while the state uses taxpayer dollars to defend against a lawsuit that should never have been necessary. The residents of Jersey City deserve better, and it is imperative that the state fully funds the district to ensure that every child has access to the quality education they deserve. The ongoing legal battle represents a critical step towards achieving educational equity and holding the state accountable for its promises.