Wayne school officials awaiting population study
By: Philip DeVencentis
NorthJersey.com
USA Today Network - New Jersey
WAYNE - The school district is not in the grave economic shape that it was in last year, [2025] but officials said they still expect to face other issues in the months ahead.
.....
Donald Pavlak Jr. the president of the Board of Education, said trustees are closely motoring enrollment trends as they wait for results of a demography study. The analysis could influence decision on classroom space and staffing, he said.
..... Figuring out how to handle the anticipated population surge from ongoing housing projects is a top priory for the district, Pavlak said in January 8, [2026]
when the school board reorganized for the new year. [2026]
.....
We're going to stay ahead of it," said Pavlak, 64, who was chosen by his colleagues as the school board president for the fourth straight year. "We're not going to chase it. We're well beyond chasing - now it's time for action.
.....
The district is at a point of inflection.
..... It has been almost two years since voters overwhelmingly rejected a $169.8 million bond proposal to fund improvements at all 15 schools, and during that period, several leaders - including the assistant superintendent and superintendent - retired or stepped down to accept jobs elsewhere.
..... But trustees said they are optimist that the new administration, led by Superintendent David Cittadino, has the district well-situated to grow in the right direction.
..... "Financially, we're not in the same position," Pavlak said, alluding to a $7.1 million budget hole that had to be filled last year. [2025] "that gives us an opportunity to plan more thoughtfully and to stay focused on long-term programs."
..... The school board reorganization also featured the installation of new trustees Joseph Agnes and Keith Heyman.
..... Trustee Barbara Rigoglios, returning for her second three-year term, was again selected as school board vice president. She was sworn in by state Superior Court Judge Scott Rumana, a former township mayor.