# Jersey City Officials Rally Behind Public Schools Foundation Amid Funding Challenges
In a significant show of support for local education, prominent elected officials gathered at a Jersey City fundraiser to bolster the Jersey City Public Schools Foundation (JCPSF), an organization working to supplement dwindling government funding for public schools.
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U.S. Rep. Rob Menendez, State Sen. Angela McKnight, and State Sen. Raj Mukherji united to address the critical financial challenges facing the city’s education system while emphasizing the foundation’s vital role in supporting students despite ongoing funding battles at the state and federal levels.
Political Leaders Speak Out on Education Crisis
The fundraiser highlighted the growing concern among Jersey City’s political representatives about the future of public education.
Congressman Menendez delivered a powerful message about the current educational landscape, warning attendees about what he described as a “nationwide assault on public schools.”
Menendez Defends Educator-Led Improvements
Taking a firm stance on educational policy, Rep. Menendez emphasized that improvements to the public education system should originate from those with direct experience.
“Educational reform must come from educators and administrators who understand the daily challenges in our classrooms,” he stated, “not from politicians without classroom experience.”
JCPSF Structure and Leadership
The Jersey City Public Schools Foundation operates with a dedicated five-member volunteer board committed to supporting local education.
Dr. Kinna Perry chairs this essential organization, while Alika Muhammed and Garth Naar serve as key board members bringing valuable expertise to the foundation’s mission.
School Board Connection and Technical Support
Board of Education Trustee Natalia Ioffe provides crucial connectivity between the foundation and school governance, serving as both an advisory member and official liaison to the school board.
Meanwhile, Emmanuel Tejada applies his expertise as the foundation’s chief technology officer, ensuring the organization remains technologically equipped to meet modern educational challenges.
State Senators Address Funding Inequities
Senator Angela McKnight detailed her proactive approach to addressing state funding reductions that have impacted Jersey City schools.
“We’re fighting to ensure Jersey City receives its fair share of educational funding,” McKnight explained, outlining her ongoing advocacy efforts at the state level.
Senator Mukherji expanded on this point, criticizing both federal and state funding cuts while highlighting how the state’s funding formula specifically disadvantages Jersey City.
While praising the foundation’s critical role in providing support to students, he acknowledged the sobering reality that private fundraising cannot fully compensate for governmental funding shortfalls.
Community Support and Notable Attendees
The fundraiser demonstrated Jersey City’s deep commitment to public education, drawing numerous prominent local figures including Hudson County Executive Craig Guy and mayoral candidate Jim McGreevey.
Their presence underscored how educational funding has become a unifying issue across city districts.
For visitors interested in supporting Jersey City’s educational initiatives, there are many ways to engage with the community.
When planning a visit, consider exploring the variety of Jersey City hotels that often host educational fundraisers and community events.
Those wondering where to stay in Jersey City can find accommodations near the city’s educational institutions, making it convenient to attend school events and fundraisers.
The city offers numerous things to do in Jersey City related to education, including school performances, educational exhibits, and community forums.
Getting to Jersey City is convenient through multiple transportation options, making it accessible for education advocates and supporters from throughout the region who wish to participate in future foundation events and contribute to the ongoing effort to strengthen the city’s educational resources.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Jersey City! Look for deals here:
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Here is the source article for this story: Menendez, McKnight, & Mukherji tout the Jersey City Public Schools Foundation
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