Behind the Headlines: The Budget Details Hardyston Isn't Sharing
On January 21, 2025, the Hardyston Board of Education held its first budget workshop of the year.
The district later released a summary of key takeaways - you can see the highlight reel below:
At first glance, it all sounds pretty good. STEM funding? Classroom air conditioning? Tutoring programs? What’s not to like?
But dig a little deeper-and some big, important questions pop up fast.
🔎 Key Takeaways: What’s Missing?
While the update showcases new initiatives, there are crucial gaps the district didn’t talk about.
1. What Cuts Are Being Made to Balance the Budget?
- The update focuses on new spending-but what’s getting axed to pay for it?
- Are programs, staff positions, or services quietly on the chopping block?
2. How Will Cost Savings Impact Students?
- Consolidating bus routes sounds efficient on paper-but are we talking about longer rides for kids?
- Will the district guarantee safety measures like bus monitors or retired officers are still in place?
- And honestly: will it actually save money after all?
3. Transparency on Taxpayer Dollars
- New signs are great, but where are the full budget figures?
- How much of the capital reserve is being spent on those air conditioning upgrades?
Big promises are easy. Budget realities? Not so much.
💬 Moving Forward: Demand Clarity
This “budget update” scratches the surface-but leaves too much unsaid.
Taxpayers, parents, and educators deserve full transparency about:
- Where cuts are happening
- What trade-offs are being made
- How long-term planning will affect kids and classrooms
Surface-level updates aren’t enough.
📅 The Next Step: February 25th Workshop
The next budget workshop is scheduled for:
- 🕒 February 25, 7 PM
- 📍 Middle School Cafeteria
This is our chance to ask tough questions-and demand real answers.
📢 Were You at the Meeting?
Did you hear something important that didn’t make it into the “official” update?
✉️ We’d love to hear from you. Send us a note here.
Because the real story deserves to be told-not just the spin.