August 2025

Dear Residents of Rockaway Township:

For the past two years, the Rockaway Township Board of Education has worked tirelessly to address current challenges facing our school district. The list of “Current Challenges” on this webpage shows that while our school facilities are well-maintained, they are not adequate for learning in the 21st century. With mandatory prekindergarten on the horizon and an increasing number of students with special needs who need specialized services and space, our schools are not providing the resources our students and parents deserve.

Working closely with our architects and engineers, the board of education provided the New Jersey Department of Education (NJ DOE) with plans that address these challenges and position the district for success for many years to come. Our plans were approved by the NJ DOE. However, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) would not approve the plans to build an Early Childhood Learning Center / Administrative Office behind Dennis B. O’Brien Elementary School without costly additional studies to address environmental concerns, which include:

• A population of Indiana Bats

• A Category I stream that runs under the football practice field behind the school

• Specific riparian zones

• Possible flood hazards.

In addition, the improvements to Copeland Middle School are hindered by a “vernal habitat” used by reptiles for reproduction located in the area of building additions and improvements. 

Despite these obstacles, the Board of Education is committed to pursuing solutions to the “Current Challenges.” Although many of our proposals have been summarily rejected by the DEP, we remain committed to finding creative solutions that address current and future needs.

The Board of Education will continue to collaborate with the district’s administration and professional consultants to develop solutions and ensure our schools are suitable for future generations. We will continue to work through the Long Range Facilities Plan (LRFP) to complete necessary upgrades and improvements to the best of our ability. This will ensure proper upkeep of our buildings and continue progress despite our inability to execute the referendum at this time.

Sincerely, 

The Rockaway Township Board of Education

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