Smith, Diegnan Bill to Allow the Educational Services Commission to Own the Piscataway Regional Day School Clears Committee

Trenton – Legislation sponsored by Senator Bob Smith and Senator Patrick Diegnan, which would require the State to sell land to the Piscataway Regional Day School, which is operated by the Educational Services Commission, cleared the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee.

“The Piscataway Regional Day School has helped out hundreds of students with disabilities for almost forty years,” said Senator Smith (D-Middlesex/Somerset). “The partnership between the School and the Educational Services Commission has paved the way for quality education and services. This legislation will allow that partnership to solidify and really blossom in a way that helps both the students and the community.”

“The Piscataway Regional Day School works tirelessly to ensure individuals with disabilities receive an educational experience that suits their varying needs,” said Senator Diegnan (D-Middlesex). “The school is currently in need of a multitude of repairs. I agree with the Educational Services Commission of New Jersey that the state should sell the school to the commission for one dollar. The Educational Services Commission is hands-on and understands the needs of the school and its students. I believe it is in the best interest of the school, the students and the taxpayers to see the sale of this school.”

The Piscataway Regional Day School has traditionally offered specialized programs for students ages 3-21, with multiple disabilities. The program focuses on the development of independent functional skills in language, academic, social and vocational areas. Student disabilities range from moderate to severe and include the areas of cognitive, neurological, medical and orthopedic disabilities.

The Educational Services Commission of New Jersey has operated the Piscataway Regional Day School through a long-standing agreement with the Department of Education since 1982. This relationship has resulted in 37 years of quality education for more than 100 students enrolled from 28 school districts covering six counties.

The bill, S-4281, was released from committee by a vote of 12-0.