Atlantic City Board of Education Jury Verdict to Cost Taxpayers Over $900,000

Atlantic City, New Jersey  — A recent jury verdict involving the Atlantic City Board of Education will cost taxpayers more than $900,000, with total expenses likely exceeding $1 million, according to legal sources. Contrary to public assumptions, insurance will not cover the payout, meaning funds will come directly from the school board’s budget, affecting local taxpayers. A review of the case reveals the Board of Education’s legal team was advised to settle years ago for approximately $20,000 but failed to act on those recommendations. This lack of timely resolution significantly increased the financial burden on the district.
Current Atlantic City Superintendent La’Quetta Small, in her role since October 2021, oversees the district during the final stages of the case, which originated before her tenure. The situation has intensified concerns amid recent criminal indictments involving Superintendent Small and her husband. This legal outcome underscores the fiscal risks to the school district and its taxpayers, highlighting the consequences of prolonged litigation and missed settlement opportunities.