Statement from Board President Dr. Courtney A. Washington on

Roselle residents voted on a school board facilities referendum on September 15, 2026, which did not pass. The vote prompted a statement from Board President Dr. Courtney A. Washington on September 16, acknowledging the outcome and outlining the Board's response.

In her statement, Washington emphasized that the Board's first job is the children in its care and its second job is to keep faith with taxpayers.

Washington acknowledged that several needs remain unaddressed. The youngest students are still learning in rented rooms. Families want a simpler path through schools. Parents expect secure entries to school buildings. Homeowners need a budget plan that does not overwhelm household finances.

Washington stated clearly that the Board will not pretend the failed plan is the only option. Instead, the Board announced it will return to the table to hear from residents who voted both yes and no on the referendum. The Board will explore creative and alternative financial approaches to address remaining student needs.

"We will take sufficient time to get the solution right while moving with purpose so rented classrooms do not become permanent," Washington said.

The Board highlighted previous accomplishments in fiscal stewardship and capital improvements. The Board approved an operating budget with no tax levy increase that stayed within the 2 percent cap. The Board used reserve funds and state grants to replace roofs, windows, and heating and cooling systems.

Washington concluded by stating the Board remains committed to keeping schools the center of its work, respecting taxpayer votes, and recognizing the daily teaching that occurs in buildings that still require attention.

Roselle residents with questions or concerns are invited to contact the district office or visit roselleschools.org.

FAQ

Q: Did Roselle's school referendum pass?

A: No. The school facilities referendum voted on by Roselle residents on September 15, 2026, did not pass.

Q: What was the referendum about?

A: The referendum concerned school facilities, including addressing unmet student needs such as rented classrooms, school security, and capital improvements.

Q: Who is Dr. Courtney A. Washington?

A: Dr. Courtney A. Washington is the Board President for Roselle Public Schools. She issued a statement on September 16, 2026, acknowledging the referendum outcome and outlining the Board's response.

Q: What does the Board plan to do after the failed referendum?

A: The Board announced it will return to the table to hear from residents who voted both yes and no on the referendum. The Board will explore creative and alternative financial approaches to address remaining student needs.

Q: What are the unaddressed student needs?

A: According to the Board statement, unaddressed needs include: the youngest students learning in rented rooms, families wanting a simpler path through schools, parents expecting secure school entries, and homeowners needing a budget plan that doesn't overwhelm household finances.

Q: Will the Board pass another referendum?

A: The Board did not announce plans for another referendum. Instead, it committed to exploring alternative financial approaches and taking time to develop a solution that addresses student needs while respecting taxpayer concerns.

Q: What past accomplishments did the Board highlight?

A: The Board highlighted: approval of an operating budget with no tax levy increase that stayed within the 2 percent cap; use of reserve funds and state grants to replace roofs, windows, and heating and cooling systems.

Q: How can Roselle residents provide input?

A: Roselle residents with questions or concerns are invited to contact the Roselle Public Schools district office or visit roselleschools.org.

Q: What is the Board's priority?

A: According to Board President Washington, the Board's first job is the children in its care, and its second job is to keep faith with taxpayers.

Q: How long will the Board take to develop a new plan?

A: The Board stated it will take sufficient time to get the solution right while moving with purpose so rented classrooms do not become permanent. A specific timeline was not provided.

Q: Can I contact the Roselle School Board?

A: Yes. Residents can contact the Roselle Public Schools district office or visit roselleschools.org for questions and concerns.