The Eleventh New Jersey · Congressional District 11 Morris · Essex · Passaic
The Eleventh

Taxes & Budget

Montclair schools face deficit and job cuts amid tax delays

The Montclair school district is navigating a budget crisis involving delayed taxes, staff reductions, and new public relations hires while residents debate housing costs.


Montclair Public Schools has hired Eshaya Draper, a seasoned public relations professional, to manage communications during an ongoing financial emergency. The hiring decision comes as the district confronts significant budget shortfalls that have already triggered job cuts and delayed tax collections for residents in Essex County.

The school board is addressing a growing deficit that threatens daily operations across the district's facilities. Officials are working through complex fiscal challenges while attempting to maintain essential services for students and families throughout Morris, Essex, and Passaic counties.

Questions residents are asking

Why did Montclair schools hire a public relations professional?

The district hired Eshaya Draper specifically to handle communications during the current budget crisis. This move follows reports of job cuts and tax delays that have created uncertainty for residents.

What are the main financial issues facing Montclair schools right now?

The district is dealing with a school deficit, delayed tax payments from residents, and necessary staff reductions. These factors combined create a challenging fiscal environment for local education funding.

More Taxes & Budget coverage