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Amato also said both Title I and IDEA areas, which deal with special education, have been doubled, further mentioning that while there will be a lot of cutting to do, he is optimistic.

He closed by stating Abbott-based school districts will get the lion’s share of an expected $700 million, with the balance falling to the other districts.

The Superintendent said all items on the district’s “wish list” are in place in the new budget, and will only eliminate personnel as an absolute last resort.

She also mentioned that only about 700 people voted in last year’s School Board election, which is less than 10 percent of an estimated 8,000 registered voters in Bellmawr.

Music Teacher Philomena Ross, part of the Public Relations Sub-Committee, said she recently authored a grant proposal of $10,000, and submitted it to the NJ Education Association, adding that she would need to re-apply for the grant on an annual basis.

Mrs. Ross also mentioned that all school-based events would be sponsored by the Bellmawr Education Association (BEA), adding that a “Pride In Education Day” will be at Bell Oaks Friday April 3, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

All schools will have an Open House on Monday and Tuesday, April 6 and 7.

Castiglione said all works done by District students would be on display throughout the day-long event, adding there will also be student performances on stage in the All-Purpose Room as well.

In terms of the budget, the Superintendent reminded attendees, that the BOE cannot suggest voters vote “yes” at the April 21 Election, adding, though, they can encourage residents to get out and vote outright.

On the subject of Teacher contracts, she stated that every contract is negotiated by the BOE, adding there is a 12-step cap process in place as well.

Bell Oaks Teacher Edward Beail said teachers only get incremented raises over the term of their contracts. In his own defense, he noted that he took a substantial pay cut, in order to become a teacher, several years ago, which speaks to his and other educator’s dedication levels.

BEA President Regina Andrews-Collette said most teachers have a starting salary of around $50,000.

Ms. Castiglione cautioned that next year’s negotiation process could be worse.

She further reiterated previously published comments regarding Pre-School expansion, adding that Bellmawr is considered a low-income school district, with 42 percent of the student body on either free or reduced price lunch plans.

“In Plain Sight,” by Gordon Mc Guinness, is “a great study on early childhood,” she said.

Concerning Pre-School, resident Holly Coleman stated she may be forced to place her children in the program, whereas she presently keep them at home.