Program Participation Remains Consistent
State data reveals that New Jersey's Inter-district Public School Choice Program has experienced minimal growth over the past decade, with annual participation averaging approximately 5,000 students. This figure has remained largely unchanged despite enrollment declines in various districts across the state.
Geographic Distribution and Limitations
The program currently includes 119 participating districts across counties including Hudson, Morris, Passaic, and Burlington. Notably, Essex County districts such as Newark do not participate. Traditional public school districts must voluntarily join as choice districts and can establish limits on student admissions.
Transportation costs significantly influence program accessibility. Sending districts cover transportation for up to 20 miles, after which parents must bear these expenses, affecting which families can utilize the program and determining feasible school locations.
Financial Constraints and Expansion Debates
The program operates with a $62 million budget and has been subject to a 5% annual growth cap implemented during Governor Chris Christie's administration in 2012-13. Some participating superintendents argue this funding limitation prevents the program from meeting seat demand.
Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill has advocated for program expansion primarily to address school segregation concerns. Supporters contend that scaling up would help desegregate schools, assist districts with declining enrollments, and provide students with more specialized program options.
Recent Participation Patterns
In 2024, Winslow Township Schools in Camden County sent 473 students to other districts—the highest among sending districts. Jersey City Public Schools and Middle Township Public Schools each sent 134 students.
Among receiving districts, Hammonton Public Schools in Atlantic County accepted 224 students, followed by Englewood Public School District with 215 students and Folsom School District with 207 students.
Lawrence Township Public Schools demonstrated balanced participation, both sending and receiving 80 students in 2024, while many smaller districts showed minimal movement through the program.
Future Considerations and Challenges
Program supporters suggest Essex County could be the next expansion target, potentially impacting Newark Public Schools where enrollment has increased by nearly 20% over five years. Newark currently enrolls approximately 44,000 pre-K through 12th grade students for the 2024-25 school year, up from about 36,600 in 2019.
Education experts caution that program expansion could strain district budgets, particularly in districts like Newark where state aid constitutes 84% of this year's budget. However, affluent districts with higher property taxes have reported positive outcomes from the program.
Former Glassboro Public School District Superintendent Mark Silverstein previously noted that the state-imposed growth cap prevented his district from expanding its choice program. During his tenure, approximately 200 students from neighboring districts participated, contributing to improved student achievement and strengthened academic programs.
Despite operating for over two decades, comprehensive data regarding current program operations, participant demographics, and financial impacts on sending and receiving districts remains limited.
