Camden’s new school superintendent states it’s too early to determine the need for additional budget cuts.

Alfonso Q. Llano Jr. is set to take the reins as the new state-appointed superintendent of Camden’s troubled school district on March 1. Ahead of his official start date, Llano met with key stakeholders, including Camden Mayor Victor Carstarphen, to outline his vision for a system that has struggled with numerous challenges, including declining enrollment, low test scores, chronic absenteeism, and high dropout rates.

Coming from his role as the superintendent of the Vineland school district, Llano faces significant obstacles in his new position, which serves approximately 5,532 students. Since the state took control of Camden’s school district in 2013, there have been modest gains. However, the district still grapples with pressing financial concerns. Last year, Camden faced a staggering budget deficit of million, leading to cuts that reduced nearly 300 staff positions. During his initial discussions, Llano reported that it was too soon to assess the budget outlook for the 2026-2027 school year.

Addressing rumors regarding potential school closures, Llano acknowledged that he had not yet reviewed any pertinent data, leading him to refrain from commenting further. His priority, he asserted, is to stabilize the district, which has not had a permanent leader since June 30.

In a community with a significant Hispanic population, Llano emphasized the need to support immigrant families, who may be increasingly hesistant to send their children to school due to concerns about Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). He expressed his commitment to maintaining schools as safe havens for all students.

The educational landscape in Camden has transformed in recent years, with many families opting for Renaissance and charter schools over traditional public schools. This trend has led to a dramatic increase in payments to these alternative educational institutions, which have risen from .9 million in 2013 to 8 million today. While Llano affirmed the importance of school choice, he also recognized the necessity for the public school system to innovate and retain students.

In his approach, Llano intends to actively listen to educators and community members, seeking to understand the realities of the classroom experience. He takes pride in being the first Hispanic leader appointed to this role, as well as one of a select few outsiders to head Camden’s school district.

Llano will receive an annual salary of 0,000 as part of his three-year contract. He succeeds Davida Coe-Brockington, a long-serving Camden educator who has been interim superintendent during the search process and expressed gratitude for Llano’s willingness to lead the district. His appointment follows a period of discontent in leadership, with local authorities concluding that a fresh vision for the district’s leadership was needed.

In a critical phase for Camden’s education system, Llano’s leadership will be closely monitored as the community, educators, and administrators aim to turn around the district’s fortunes and provide quality education to its students. Media News Source.