The Lakewood Board of Education is steps that could lead to the layoff of 162 paraprofessionals, as the financially strained district continues to grapple with mounting debt and the possibility of a state takeover.
According to an Asbury Park Press report, all 162 aides were expected to receive Reduction in Force (RIF) notices on Friday as part of what the district described as its annual staffing review. Union officials said the move could pave the way for the district to outsource those positions, which primarily support special education students.
State law requires school districts to issue RIF notices to unionized employees under consideration for layoffs. The notices do not guarantee job losses but initiate a formal process that outlines employee rights, including potential severance.
District officials did not confirm the planned layoffs. Board attorney Joshua Forsman told the APP the district is “evaluating various options to ensure the effective and efficient delivery of services to students,” adding that no final decisions have been made.
The potential layoffs come as the district considers a proposed $327 million budget for the 2026–2027 school year, a $24 million increase over the current $303 million plan. The budget includes a request for an additional $138 million state loan, on top of more than $143 million the district already owes the state.
In January, the New Jersey Department of Education announced plans to pursue a state takeover of the district, citing “years of documented failures” and persistent deficiencies in delivering a constitutionally required education – despite state monitors making all of the financial decisions in the school district.
If the takeover proceeds, Lakewood would become the fifth public school district in New Jersey history to come under state control.
