Gov. Chris Christie’s administration has committed to applying for federal funds that will help teachers in the state. A new bill was passed to make $268 million available to New Jersey, and it wasn’t clear whether Christie would support the move.
Press Secretary Michael Drewniak today issued the following statement on the bill: “While Governor Chris Christie believes that using this type of non-recurring funding for operating expenses is ill advised because it will disappear after one year, the Governor will apply for the education funding passed by the House today in order to ensure it is managed and distributed to local school districts by the State of New Jersey, and not the federal government. Guaranteeing New Jersey is in control of these education dollars will ensure that these funds are used by all school districts to help restore some of the federal stimulus funds lost in this year’s difficult budget.”
Estimates say just undert 4,000 jobs could be saved that were removed due to budget cuts. It is unclear what districts will benefit and how the money will be distributed. This money must only be spent on teacher’s compensation and can not be used in any other area.
