Ramapo Indian Hills BOE - Budget Hearing - March 16, 2026
On March 16, 2026, the Ramapo Indian Hills Regional High School District Board of Education held a meeting to adopt the tentative budget for the 2026-2027 school year. This district serves the communities of Oakland, Franklin Lakes, and Wyckoff. The meeting included reports from students and administrators, committee updates, approval of personnel actions, and discussions on facilities and policies. The Board also reviewed and approved contracts related to facility renovations and discussed travel expenditures for staff and board members.
Key Takeaways
- The Board adopted the Tentative Budget for the 2026-2027 school year totaling $74,389,089, with a General Fund tax levy of $59,308,497.
- The Board approved awarding the Family and Consumer Science Classrooms Alterations project contract to Grove Contracting LLC. for $2,064,000.
- The district joined the Somerset County Cooperative System (#2-SOCCP) effective March 16, 2026, through December 31, 2028.
- A $10,000 one-time Facility Improvement Fee for baseball fields was approved payable to Wyckoff Township.
- Personnel actions included the retirement of Allison Wittlinger after 34 years of service and multiple instructional and non-instructional appointments and leaves.
- The Board approved the NJSLA Support Program providing additional instruction for test preparation in English Language Arts, Algebra 1, and Science for the 2026 testing cycle.
- The Board set a maximum travel expenditure of $93,942 for the 2026-2027 school year for staff and board members.
- Multiple district policies and regulations were approved, including revisions to policies on board member election, resource materials, public complaints, and sexual harassment.
What This Means for Residents
The adoption of the tentative budget outlines the district's financial plan for the upcoming school year, including tax levies that affect homeowners in Oakland, Franklin Lakes, and Wyckoff. The approval of facility projects and membership in a cooperative system may impact how the district manages resources and services.
Personnel changes and educational programs like the NJSLA Support Program reflect ongoing efforts to support students and staff. Policy updates and facility fees are part of routine district governance and operations. Overall, the meeting covered standard district business with no extraordinary changes announced.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total amount of the tentative budget adopted for 2026-2027?
The total budget appropriations amount to $74,389,089, including the General Fund, Special Revenue Fund, and Debt Service Fund.
Who was awarded the contract for the Family and Consumer Science Classrooms Alterations project?
The contract was awarded to Grove Contracting LLC. for a total amount of $2,064,000.
What is the maximum travel expenditure approved for the 2026-2027 school year?
The Board approved a maximum travel expenditure of $93,942 for all staff and board members.
Did the Board approve any fees payable to local municipalities?
Yes, the Board approved a one-time Facility Improvement Fee of $10,000 payable to Wyckoff Township for baseball fields.
Were there any retirements or personnel appointments approved?
Yes, the Board accepted the retirement of Allison Wittlinger effective July 1, 2026, and approved multiple instructional and non-instructional appointments and leaves.
About the Source
Read the full meeting minutes. This summary is provided by the Chopper Russo Team as a community resource for residents and prospective buyers in Oakland, Franklin Lakes, and Wyckoff.
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