East Ramapo School District Reveals $30 Million Surplus

The East Ramapo Central School District has revealed a surprising $31.1 million surplus, contradicting previous claims of financial distress and prompting outrage among community members and politicians. The surplus was uncovered during an audit and attributed to under-expenditures linked to COVID-19 funds, raising questions about the accuracy of earlier financial reports that indicated a looming deficit. State Senator Bill Weber criticized the State Education Department for their mismanagement of the situation, which led to a significant tax increase on residents based on erroneous financial projections. Interim Superintendent Anthony DiCarlo acknowledged that prior administrations failed to follow best financial practices and committed to transparency in future budgeting. Community advocates expressed both relief and skepticism, urging responsible use of the surplus to support public education instead of exacerbating prior fiscal mismanagement. The district's unexpected financial turnaround has sparked calls for accountability from state officials and community leaders alike.