Dear Collingswood Community,
Our school district has a long-standing tradition of academic excellence, strong community support, and a commitment to preparing every student for a successful future. On July 13, 2026, during the public Board of Education meeting, members thoughtfully discussed the need to address the financial challenges facing our schools with a longer-term solution. The Board of Education convened again on August 19, 2026, to further discuss options to present to the community. Today, we are writing to share essential information about an upcoming question on the November ballot that directly impacts the day-to-day operations of our schools.
This November, residents will be asked to vote on an operational referendum.
Operational vs. Capital: What's the Difference?
When most people hear the word "referendum," they think of major construction projects - new buildings, roof repairs, windows, or HVAC upgrades. Those are known as capital project referendums, which are restricted by law to physical infrastructure and cannot be used to support staff salaries or daily student programming.
An operational referendum is fundamentally different. It does not go toward improvements to school buildings. Instead, it funds the operational expenses of our school district - the people, programs, and services inside the buildings.
What the Operational Referendum Means for Our Schools
If approved by voters, this referendum will invest an estimated $4.56 million into the school district operating budget. These funds will be directly dedicated to:
Maintaining School-based Staff: Attracting and retaining dedicated teachers, instructional assistants, and academic support staff, with student-to-teacher ratios remaining a top priority.
Sustaining Student Support Services: Protecting critical programs that support student well-being, including school counselors, mental health resources, special education services, and academic intervention programs currently in progress.
Providing Essential Operations: Maintaining essential school district business operations that support school-based staff and students, including human resources, payroll, employee benefits, purchasing, facilities, maintenance, and technology.
Preserving Core Programming: Ensuring we maintain strong academic offerings, elective courses, athletics, co-curricular activities, and well-rounded student learning experiences without making drastic budget cuts.
Why Now?
Our school district continues to face rising operational costs due to inflation and cost-of-living adjustments, escalating health insurance and utility costs, and reduced state and federal funding. Since 2013, we have made prudent financial adjustments to stretch every dollar available. However, to maintain the current level of educational quality and service our students deserve, additional operational revenue is necessary.
Staying Informed and Getting Involved
We believe in full transparency and want every member of our community to feel informed before heading to the polls in November. Over the coming months, we will host informational sessions, share financial history, and answer frequently asked questions.
Election Day: Tuesday, November 3, 2026
Learn More: Visit New Jersey School Funding 101
Learn More: Visit the district website or attend an upcoming Community Forum, Back to School Night, or Board of Education Meeting.
Thank you for your continued partnership and dedication to the youth of our community. When our schools thrive, our entire community thrives.
Sincerely,
Dr. Fred McDowell, Superintendent of Schools
Kelly Maia, President, Board of Education