FAQ

What is a bond referendum?

The word “referendum” means vote, and a bond referendum asks voters to approve funding through the sale of bonds. Like a company’s stock certificates, bonds can be sold to investors. Property taxes are used to buy them back with interest. In this way, bonds can provide the school district with up-front funding to make long-lasting improvements similar to the way a homeowner might use a loan to renovate a kitchen. Property taxes are used to buy back those bonds, with interest.  

Why is debt part of a smart fiscal strategy for a school district?

Sometimes consumers might think borrowing indicates poor planning and that it results in higher costs due to interest. The opposite is true for public school districts in New Jersey. They are eligible for a special kind of state aid that only comes with bond borrowing. Districts strategically plan to group projects into a bond referendum to take advantage of that aid – which can cover about one third of the costs. That keeps project costs off the local tax bills. 

What kind of special state aid is available when voters approve bond funding?

The State of New Jersey sets aside funds to help public school districts maintain their facilities. This special state aid for debt payback is given only to districts where voters committed to paying for improvements through bond borrowing. Lawrence taxpayers already contribute to the state funds that provide this aid; it will only come back to Lawrence through a voter-approved bond referendum.  

What is a property’s “assessed” value?

Property taxes are based on assessed value, not market value. A homeowner might guess at his property’s market value based on recent sales of similar homes; that can change day to day. 

In contrast, property assessments are determined by Lawrence Township and sent each year to all property owners. They do not change throughout the year. You can find that on your tax bill. The mathematical average of all home assessments in Lawrence is around $284,000.

Why aren't we seeing architectural plans for LIS?

While LIS will also be undergoing an exciting physical and ideological transformation to a true Upper Elementary School, LIS is already outfitted to hold three grade levels, so there won't be any major construction projects happening here. The LIS transformation, which will consist of enhancing student and parent orientation programs, a dedicated 3rd grade wing, plus other functional and cosmetic improvements, will be executed thoughtfully, with input gathered from staff, families, and other community members.

What effect will this have on traffic?

We see this project as an opportunity to study, evaluate and improve the traffic pattern (and parking!) in and around Lawrence Middle School and Lawrence High School.  We have hired traffic experts in the design of this reconfiguration and believe everyone will be pleased with the outcome. 

Will students with special needs who were sent out of district return as part of this plan?

Our mission as a district is to educate students in the least restrictive setting, and one of the goals with the LMS expansion is to provide classroom space to provide a continuum of services to our students with special needs and offer them the same programs and supports to make meaningful progress. However, student placement in always a conversation between IEP team and the students' families. 

Why is a new multi-purpose field part of the plan?

Part of the developmentally appropriateness of 6th grade moving to the middle school is that they are ready for intramurals and sports, not just once a week PTO clubs.  A multi-purpose turf field will be used year-round by sports teams, marching bands, color guard, and PE classes, as well as the recreation department and other community groups. Turf fields also help to eliminate poor field conditions from wear and tear, water, and mud, making it safer for students. 

How much will the referendum cost taxpayers?

The approximate cost of the proposed new construction and renovations is between $90-95 million. The estimated additional tax on the average assessed home of $286K would be $310 annually ($26 per month, or 85 cents a day). The specific dollar amount and referendum questions for voters to consider will be determined after the NJDOE reviews the application and advises which portion of the costs are eligible for NJ State funding.