Board approves new middle-school special-education section aimed at bringing some students back from out-of-district placements

The Haddon Township Board of Education voted May 15 to add a new middle-school special-education consultant section intended to bring some students back from out-of-district placements and provide services in the district’s “least restrictive environment.”

Superintendent Dr. Bizzicaro described the change as both an instructional improvement and a potential cost-savings measure. “The cost to educate a student out of district could be as much as $100,000 per student,” he said, while noting added transportation costs and complexity for out-of-district placements.

The motion to add the section, listed on the agenda as items 9.1–9.3, also authorizes hiring an additional teacher to staff the new program. School administrators said facilities work from the recent referendum — including classroom changes and roof-top unit installation — created space and timing to start the program.

At the same time, administrators cautioned that the district’s budget outlook remains uncertain. The superintendent told the board it is “banking on” participation in a state Tax Levy Incentive Program that would contribute $189,000 toward planned programs; he said that program’s funding is contingent on the State of New Jersey approving its budget, which may not be finalized until June 30. The administration also said the district will use a mix of extraordinary aid, fund-balance transfers and other local measures depending on final state aid decisions.

Board members voted in roll call to approve items 9.1–9.3. The motion carried. The board did not amend the motion at the meeting.

Ending: The approved program is scheduled to begin next school year subject to hiring and final budget decisions. The superintendent and administration plan follow-up work over the summer to confirm funding and staffing.