Dear Members of the Oaklyn Community,
On August 27, the Oaklyn Board of Education discussed budget sustainability and reviewed a multi-year budget forecast prepared by the District Business Office. The core finding from the report indicates that the 2026-2027 school budget remains structurally imbalanced. Currently, diminishing financial reserves are being used to balance the annual operating budget, while recurring new revenues are below school district operating expenses.
These growing funding gaps are the result of increases to competitive staff salaries, healthcare, utilities, instructional supplies, technology, and other fixed operational expenses. The Board of Education are focused on solutions that honor the needs of our students and the values of our community.
Many have asked how they can help. Together we must unite and demand more from our Oaklyn representatives. Key actions to support our district include:
Community Outreach: Speak up to ensure that Oaklyn receives its fair share of school funding:
The Oaklyn School District has updated the website and posted a detailed Long-Term Budget Analysis to guide our community conversations.
Without real change at the State level, we will continue to face extremely difficult decisions. We are asking our community to help us advocate for what is needed to support our students.
This financial challenge doesn't just affect Oaklyn. It affects all our students, our staff, and our community. As a Board of Education, we are listening to your concerns and care deeply for our students, our school, and our community. We are also working alongside others like the NJ Fair Funding Collective to consolidate our advocacy efforts.
Our Board and District Leadership Team remain dedicated in supporting our students and staff with stability and care. We will continue to communicate openly as we navigate the path forward--together.
We thank you for your continued dedication to our school. Your passion and engagement define Oaklyn. We share your commitment to our students and staff and will continue to listen and collaborate as we work together for our school.
Respectfully,
Dr. Fred McDowell
Superintendent