Newark Dems Blow It on Ghost Consultants While Kids Can’t Read [WATCH]

A growing controversy in Newark, New Jersey, is drawing attention to how federal education funds have been used as the Newark Board of Education moves forward with a $1.5 billion budget for the 2024–2025 school year.

At the center of the scrutiny are more than $250 million in federal funds allocated to address learning loss following disruptions tied to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Reports indicate that despite the scale of the investment, the funding has not produced measurable improvements in student performance, raising concerns about oversight and accountability.

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The Newark Board of Education approved the budget as part of ongoing efforts to stabilize and expand services for more than 41,000 students in the district.

The spending plan includes funding for tutoring programs, services for English language learners, and support for students with disabilities, as well as broader initiatives aimed at academic recovery.

However, questions have emerged regarding how some of the federal funds were distributed.

Reports indicate that certain contracts were awarded to individuals and organizations with limited or unclear ties to educational outcomes.

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One case that has drawn attention involves a literary consultant who received federal funding but had not begun work more than a year after the contract was awarded.

The issue has sparked reaction from members of the public, including criticism shared on social media platforms.

One widely circulated post stated, “Money is being blown on things that have little to nothing to do with student outcomes, academic improvement, and student support!”

The same post raised concerns about a possible conflict of interest, alleging that the recipient of one of the contracts had a connection to a close associate of an assistant superintendent.

The claims have intensified calls for further examination of the district’s contracting practices.

The controversy comes as the district faces broader financial pressures and operational challenges.

Superintendent Roger León has been overseeing efforts to manage funding allocations that include support for charter schools and the recruitment of new educators, particularly in bilingual education and special education.

District officials have acknowledged ongoing financial challenges. Valerie Wilson, the district’s business administrator, addressed the situation, stating, “We have not caught up yet, but we are beginning to do so.”

To help address budget demands, the spending plan includes a proposed $30 annual tax increase for average homeowners.

Officials have said the increase is intended to support educational programs and infrastructure needs as the district works to meet rising demands.

At the same time, Newark’s public school system is dealing with additional financial considerations, including funding for charter schools and transportation costs.

The budget includes a $7 million allocation for charter school transportation, reflecting the scale of expenditures tied to education in the city.

The district is also managing a backlog of nearly $2 billion in facility upgrades identified through a school infrastructure assessment.

Plans to build new schools and renovate existing facilities are part of a long-term strategy referred to by León as “The Next Decade.”

As concerns about the use of federal funds continue to grow, calls for increased oversight and potential investigations have intensified.

The situation is unfolding as the Newark Teachers Union, led by President John Abeigon, engages in negotiations over a new contract that could affect teacher compensation and working conditions.

The allegations surrounding the use of learning loss funds have added to the pressure facing district leadership, with questions emerging about financial management and the effectiveness of spending decisions tied to student outcomes.

León addressed the broader intent behind the budget, stating, “The budget is about a strategy and everyone’s best thinking.”

The developments have placed the Newark Board of Education under heightened scrutiny as officials and policymakers evaluate the district’s financial practices and consider next steps related to oversight and accountability.

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