Budget Crisis Hits West Orange Schools — Layoffs And Tax Hike On The Table

WEST ORANGE (Essex County) A looming budget crisis could gut classrooms and hit taxpayers in West Orange.

School officials say the West Orange Public Schools district is facing a $14M to $15M deficit for the 2026 to 2027 school year, and the plan to close it is aggressive.

At least 70 full-time jobs could be cut, while schools brace for larger class sizes, fewer courses, and schedule changes.

Even with cuts already underway, leaders admit the budget still does not balance.

Now, residents could also see a 2.5% tax increase, adding roughly $294 to the average annual bill.

Officials blame rising costs, especially health benefits, up nearly 18%, and say the financial strain has been building for years.

West Orange is the latest NJ district facing tough choices: cut staff or raise taxes or both.