Mercer County schools superintendents have pledged to continue to provide an exceptional education for all students, despite proposed changes to public education at the federal level.
President Donald Trump has stated his intention to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education, which among other actions would affect funding for public schools. However, most of the money to support school district budgets is raised through local school district property taxes.
Nevertheless, several proposed changes related to public education at the federal level may have contributed to a sense of uncertainty and concern among Mercer County residents, according to a letter signed by the 10 schools superintendents who belong to the Mercer County Association of School Administrators this month.
The letter was signed by Mark Daniels, the superintendent of schools for the East Windsor Regional School District and by Rosetta D. Treece, who is the superintendent of schools for the Hopewell Valley Regional School District.
It was also signed by Lawrence Township Public Schools Superintendent of Schools Robyn A. Klim and Princeton Public Schools Interim Superintendent of Schools Kathie Foster.
“We acknowledge these challenges and understand the potential questions they raise about the future of our educational environments,” according to the superintendents’ letter.
“We want to be unequivocally clear that these changes have not deterred us from our dedication to providing an exceptional education for all our students,” the letter stated.
The superintendents’ letter said they are “steadfast in our belief that every child deserves a learning environment where they are not only educated, but also valued as integral members of our school community.”
“Our commitment to acceptance, connection and fairness serve as the cornerstones of our efforts to ensure that all students feel a deep sense of belonging and community,” the letter stated.
The superintendents said they will address head-on any challenges that may arise, and also vowed to support students and staff through any uncertainties posed by potential changes at the federal level.
Public education is a state right and responsibility, which means Mercer County public school districts are required to provide equal access to all students – regardless of their race, color, sex, gender identity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, ability or disability, or immigration status.
Schools must meet this fundamental obligation and avoid policies that prevent or dissuade students from obtaining a public education, the letter stated.
“In Mercer County, we remain passionately committed to protecting the rights of every student within our schools,” according to the letter.
“Together, we will continue to provide the exceptional education our students deserve, while cultivating communities where every student has opportunities to thrive.”
