West Orange Parents for Education (WOPE) is a grassroots civic group originally formed by parents from Gregory Elementary, but now has supporters from every school in the district. We came together in Spring 2025 in response to the structural budget deficit driven by the state's SFRA funding formula, and widespread concerns about transparency, equity, and long-term planning. Now entering our second year of advocacy, WOPE continues to push for formula reform at the state level.

Our first collective action — a public letter advocating for transparency and solutions — received over 400 signatures from families representing every school in the district. Our second petition this year to our elected officials received over 600 signatures. That outpouring of support sparked this growing movement to bring families, educators, and community members together in a united effort to strengthen our schools.

WOPE has engaged directly with elected officials on SFRA reform and produced independent policy analysis used in legislative discussions. We are building a coalition with other formula-affected districts across New Jersey who face similar structural challenges.

West Orange Parents for Education

Our kids deserve a plan