<p>wanna help? The latest NJ state budget ended funding for the NJ Governors school, a summer program for HS juniors (after jr year). Kids waiting anxiously for acceptance letters instead received cancellation notices! A private fundraising effort was quickly started - I think all they need is around $1.9mm. My hs junior didn’t even apply, so I have no vested interest other than supporting this type of program. This is not a solicitation, but I am sending off a small check (tax deductible) to Ms. Jane Oates, Executive Director, Commision on Higher Education, 20 West State St, 7th flr, PO Box 542, Trenton NJ 08625-0542… if anyone is interested… even have a phone#.</p>
<p>here is one of several stories that have been in the NJ news lately:</p>
<p>My nephew went last summer and it was such an wonderful experience for him. If not for the governor’s school he would have had no opportunity for a high-end summer enrichment program.</p>
<p>I was hoping that a corporation or private donor would step up to the plate. It is such a shame.</p>
<p>The program has been re-instated for this year. I do wish that the program was free only for those in financial need though, and those who did not need $ should pay for the 4-week program. Just like college. Our H.S. is in an affluent town, and we send several kids to Governor’s school every year, and every one of them is quite wealthy. They are getting the research opportunities, plus room and board for 4 weeks, when those families can drop $5000 wthout a blink.</p>
<p>Although my children did not have the opportunity to attend Gov School, I like the idea that for once families with decent incomes get something “free” in return for all the taxes they pay. I’m tired of being looked upon as privileged while the really rich go on their merry undertaxed way. I say keep Gov School funded and keep it free for all who get in. Anyone who pays NJ property taxes and sees them going to fund underperforming public school districts deserves a break once in a while.</p>
<p>I do see your point, as we never qualify for financial aid either. But if this program is floundering, due to the huge NJ deficit, it could likely get axed for 2007. Then no-one gets in. Politicians do not seem to care what gets care in the name of reducing a deficit. Even if it means saving a paltry $2m.</p>
<p>Two of my kids attended Gov School and they had wonderful summers.
We never qualify for financial aid but we usually make donations when we receive their letter requesting contributions.</p>
<p>Thanks for bringing this back up. I already got a letter back for the $$ I sent. I think this is a great candidate for private funding, and tuition should be charged as long as scholarships are available for those in need.</p>
<p>Here is the letter I got back with a little more info:</p>
<p>i went to governor’s school for free, even though my parents could have paid. However, because I was given this opportunity, my parents now donate every year to governors school, while if they had had to pay for it they probably would not have. In the end NJ governors school has gotten more money, and will get more money, from my parents than if they had initially made them pay</p>
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