Schools
Referendum To Modernize Cranford Schools Will Be Delayed
The referendum includes installing AC in large common spaces, technological upgrades and a full-day kindergarten program.
CRANFORD, NJ — A proposed referendum at Cranford Public Schools, which is guided by the results of a townwide survey, would allow for several technological and accessibility enhancements in the district.
However, according to a message that Superintendent Scott Rubin sent to the community on Wednesday, the referendum question will not be put on the ballot in Dec. 2022 because it is still awaiting approval from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.
At the last Board meeting on Sept. 19, business administrator Robert Carfagno and architectural firm LAN Associates provided an update on the proposed referendum, as well as preliminary drawings, featuring district enhancements at every school and a full-day kindergarten program. Here is a video of that presentation.
Find out what's happening in Cranfordwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
According to Rubin, the townwide survey indicated that about 71 percent of the community is in support of the district enhancements.
This includes updating science labs, modernizing library/multimedia centers to support 21st Century STEM programs, enhancing performing arts spaces, enhancing accessibility options, installing AC in large common spaces, upgrading electrical services, making repairs districtwide and more.
Find out what's happening in Cranfordwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
In addition, Rubin said the survey indicated that approximately 65 percent favored full-day kindergarten in the currently zoned elementary schools.
"Therefore, District enhancements and full-day kindergarten in currently zoned areas continue to be the focus of this referendum planning," Rubin wrote.
Rubin explained that the district has received plan approval from the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) but does not have a timetable for the approval from the NJDEP.
He said it's possible that the district may not be able to place the referendum question on the ballot in Jan. 2023 or March 2023. The next possible date would be in Sept. 2023, Rubin said.
"We hope to get approval from the NJDEP as soon as possible so we can continue moving forward," Rubin said.
The district also plans to create a section on the district website that will provide specific information pertaining to the proposed referendum.
Feedback can be provided here.
You can view the entire referendum presentation on YouTube below:
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
