CONTACT:

David Sciarra                                                        973-624-1815 (x 16)

DATE: July 23, 2003

Court Recognizes and Supports
Academic Achievements in Abbott Schools

Trenton, NJ. – Speaking to reporters in the State House today, David Sciarra, Executive Director of the Education Law Center, said today’s New Jersey Supreme Court’s ruling ensures that the academic gains of students in Abbott schools can continue in the coming school year. He issued the following statement:

We have seen dramatic gains on the state’s test in early literacy since 1999 when implementation of the Abbott Decision began in earnest. The Court’s ruling today recognizes this success. The Court has taken concrete steps to ensure that the school reform efforts now underway in Abbott schools continue. By directing the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) to fully fund school-based programs and positions, the Court has taken a strong stance. The Court said in no uncertain terms that school reform programs now in place cannot be weakened.

The Court also put the onus on the NJDOE to provide concrete evidence for any claim that the administration in some Abbott districts is ineffective and/or inefficient.  If the NJDOE is aware of any misuse of Abbott funds, it now must come forward and present that information publicly. This directive by the Court will provide assurance to every taxpayer in New Jersey that the Abbott funds are being spent in the best interest of the children.

This Decision, along with the agreements reached in mediation recently, represents an important milestone in the Abbott case. The requirement for whole school reform has been re-affirmed. Now it is time for the NJDOE to work cooperatively with all stakeholders to build upon the remarkable success that the Abbott programs have accomplished in only three years.