Montclair Public Schools are confronting a nearly $18 million budget deficit, just a year after the district approved a $19,500 performance bonus for its former business administrator, according to reporting by Montclair Local.
The bonus was awarded in June of last year to Christina Hunt. It came on the recommendation of then-Superintendent Jonathan Ponds. Records show the board praised Hunt for meeting “quantitative merit goals,” including managing bond projects, increasing grant revenues and offsetting the debt service tax levy.
However, the district had accumulated unpaid bills totaling tens of thousands of dollars months before the bonus was issued. Records show that as of March 2024, Montclair owed $40,046 to BAYADA Home Health Care and $8,000 to Elevate Educational Services for work completed earlier that same year. Essex Regional Educational Services Commission also reported nearly $5.8 million owed to it by the district as of March of this year.
New Superintendent Ruth B. Turner said she discovered the deficit shortly after starting in July. She attributed the shortfall to unpaid bills spanning multiple years.
Community Response Sparks Oversight Questions
The mounting deficit has dominated recent board meetings and town halls. At a September 17 Board of Education meeting, town residents raised questions about the causes of the shortfall, calling into question the district’s oversight practices. Parents, staff and former board candidates pressed for more transparency, including a full forensic audit.
Linda Kow, president of the Montclair PTA Council, welcomed the forums. Student representative Wyatt Foster asked whether clubs and programs at risk of cuts could secure funding from outside sources. Retired teacher Dan Gill stressed the need for a detailed review of the district’s finances to restore trust.
Staff Concerns and Administrative Response
Turner has emphasized rebuilding relationships with staff and improving communication. A June survey revealed staff desire clearer updates on budget priorities, stronger central office accountability, and support for leadership transitions. Turner plans to release a follow-up survey in mid-October and present a detailed 100-day plan at the November board meeting.
The district will hold a budget update town hall on Friday, Sept. 26, at 6 p.m. at Buzz Aldrin Middle School, 173 Bellevue Avenue. Turner will also meet with staff at Montclair High School on Oct. 9 for a “Listen and Learn” session, followed by a town hall regarding a $188 bond referendum on Oct. 16.
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