Elementary School In South Jersey To Close Due To Budget Gap

COLLINGSWOOD, NJ — Garfield Elementary School will close ahead of the 2026/2027 school year due to concerns addressed by a new budget approved in Collingswood.

The Board of Education held a public hearing on April 29, where members spoke on the challenges that a post-pandemic era and lack of federal funding have left them with, to the tune of a $3.3 million gap.

Dr. Frederick McDowell, Superintendent of Collingswood Public Schools, gave a glimpse into how many angles the Garfield decision, in particular, affects him outside of his professional role.

"I am also a father, I am a resident, I am a taxpayer who cares deeply about this community," McDowell added. "I care deeply about my family, who were personally impacted by some of the decisions we are having to make."

A decrease in state aid, combined with a 22 percent increase in employee health insurance costs and other operational fees were the main drivers behind a handful of decisions made by the board moving forward.

Along with the reassignment of 113 students from Garfield Elementary School, these include:

• Reductions in both full and part-time staff across "all departments"
• The consolidation of programs
• The closing of the Middle and High School Wellness Center
• Reduction in mental health resources
• Consolidation of Middle and High School campus with a restructuring of management and operations
• Reduction in operational line items for supplies and equipment
• "Pay-to-Play" model for certain activities

"Our students' issues are real," Abigail Braddock, former intern at the Wellness Center, said to the Board on April 29 after what she said has been a recent history of reductions. "It is of my opinion, and also several of your students who have spoken to me, that this is a punch in the face."

Students, she said, have voiced their feelings on numerous occasions, including one claiming "They don't care about us," speaking about the Board.

"What do I say to them?" asked Braddock.

The decisions, the district said, were made to meet state and federal mandates "while protecting our core educational mission."

Community members are encouraged to take action by contacting local and state legislators, sending letters advocating for fair funding, and taking part in multiple spring events and year-end activities to welcome families who are entering new schools.

MORE FROM PATCH: 100 Layoffs Planned Amidst Budget Challenges In South Jersey School District

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