Law likely to eliminate non-operating school districts

Twenty-six small school districts that do not operate schools most likely will be eliminated under legislation signed yesterday by Gov. Corzine.

Of the 26 so-called non-operating districts statewide, the local districts up for elimination are Audubon Park, Chesilhurst, Hi-Nella, Pine Valley, and Tavistock in Camden County, Pemberton Borough in Burlington County, and Newfield Borough in Gloucester County.

They will be merged in most cases with the larger districts where their students attend school and to which the small districts pay tuition costs.

Champions of the legislation said it would save money. Opponents, however, counter it might eventually cost some taxpayers more money and result in other complications. - Rita Giordano