Camden Schools Cut 289 Jobs Amid Budget Crisis

Faced with a $91 million deficit, the Camden City School District in New Jersey will eliminate 289 full-time positions, including at least 117 layoffs, consolidate administrative roles, and restructure schools, though no immediate school closures are planned. The district cites a nearly 50% decline in enrollment over the past decade and the end of federal COVID-19 relief funds as primary causes, alongside increased payments to charter and Renaissance schools, even after a 6% state aid increase. Similar budget crises are affecting other districts, such as Reynolds School District in Oregon, which will cut $25 million, eliminate 118 teaching positions, and add 10 furlough days. In Tennessee, Campbell County’s district is weighing use of reserves, further staff cuts, or spending adjustments to close its own deficit. These developments underscore widespread funding challenges and the effects of declining student populations and rising operational costs in public education nationwide. Community members and unions in Camden and other districts have voiced concern over the impact on staff and students.