Gov. Phil Murphy visited Ridge High School in Bernards Township Sept. 12 as he continued his recent mini tour around the state seeking to highlight investments in the Fiscal Year 2023 budget.

The spending plan includes $9.9 billion in K-12 funding, which increased the formula aid by $650 million.

Murphy’s administration stressed several initiatives during the stop, including:

• $2 billion for public school infrastructure investments,
• $120 million in American Rescue Plan funding for preschool facilities improvements,
• $68 million increase in preschool funding for expanded full day preschool,
• $5 million for a new climate change education grant and office within the Department of Education, and more.

“New Jersey is known for its public education system, and these investments further build on my commitment to providing high-quality education to all New Jersey students,” said Murphy.

“Working together to fund education should always be a priority,” said Sen. Jon Bramnick, R-21st District. “This increased state funding helps all of our students and local taxpayers. Let’s continue this bipartisan approach to education.”

Ridge High School Principal Russell Lazovick said that the school is always striving to do more for its students, and these resources are imperative to its success.

“This investment demonstrates confidence in our educators, understanding of what is needed, and an unfailing belief that our students deserve nothing less than everything we can give them,” said Lazovick. “This investment demonstrates a commitment to the partnerships that make up N.J.’s public school system, partnerships that have anchored our communities, supported our teachers, and created the strongest learning environments for all of our students.”