THE ISSUE
Since the 2013 state takeover, Camden’s public school system has been systematically destabilized through policy decisions that removed local control and redirected resources.
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11 public schools closed
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1,100+ teachers & staff fired
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Student enrollment cut in half (11,660 → 5,764)
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$91 million budget deficit remains unexplained
At the same time, funding has disproportionately shifted away from traditional public schools toward charter and renaissance systems. $200 million per year.
WHAT'S HAPPENING NOW
• Schools are being merged, reduced, or threatened with closure
• Students have lost counselors, support staff, and essential services
• The State continues to appoint leadership without community input
• The community-selected superintendent was undermined and replaced
CALL TO ACTION
ADVOCATE
Help secure meetings with NJ Governor & NJ Commissioner of Education ( SIGN THE PETITION )
AMPLIFY
Share this campaign & elevate voices Social media Kit attached here ( GET THE KIT )
MOBILIZE
Attend meetings, town halls, and sign petitions ( Register to speak by 4/30 - REGISTER NOW )
DONATE
Help us fund this campaign ( DONATE NOW )
OUR DEMANDS
1. Return Camden to Local Control
Families deserve decision-making power over their schools.
2. Stop School Closures & Mergers
Implement a moratorium on shutting down traditional public schools.
3. Follow the Money
Conduct an independent forensic audit of the $91M deficit.
4. Invest in Students
Rehire counselors, support staff, and essential personnel.
5. Establish Community Accountability
Create a real decision-making board including parents, students, and educators.
“Camden families are not asking to be saved — we are demanding transparency, investment, and the right to lead our own schools.”
WHY THIS MATTERS
This is about:
• Educational equity
• Racial justice
• Public accountability
• Protecting Black and Brown students in Camden
THE MOVEMENT
CAMDEN STUDENTS, PARENTS, AND COMMUNITY LEADERS ARE ALREADY:
• Leading student walkouts and protests
• Testifying before the NJ Board of Education
• Organizing press conferences and town halls
• Meeting directly with state leadership
CONTACT & ENGAGEMENT
Byheijja Sabree | bsabree@camdenpsu.com
Upcoming Event
THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETINGWed, May 06New Jersey Department of Education