Dear Editor:

Truancy Officer Eric Roque has been continuously investigating students who are illegally registered in the Secaucus Public School System. It cost the taxpayers $15,000 per year to educate our students. This is a benefit that the parents of these students who are enrolled illegally are taking advantage of our taxpayers. The students come from various areas of Hudson and Bergen Counties including some from New York. Landlords have given signed leases to parents so that they may register their children into our schools. Even though the families do not live in the designated apartments they are still registering their children.

To date 3 have been confirmed and another 5 to follow to be disenrolled. Bringing the count to 23 illegal students removed from our rolls this year alone. Since the employment of Mr. Roque approximately 40 students have been removed or voluntarily disenrolled. This brings a savings of $600,000 to our schools.

Parents should be aware that this illegal act will cost them the $15,000 that it cost to educate each child and possible jail time to be served. Repercussion may also fall upon those who may be a party to giving out falsified documents and leases. It is a complement to see that people feel that we have such a good educational system. However they should comply with the rules and regulations that will allow their children to legally reap the benefits that our educational system has to offer.

The community should make the Truancy Officer aware when they know of students who are registered illegally. Students attending our schools illegally not only cost us in tax dollars, but may also cost legitimate students a college placement or even a scholarship. If you are aware of such situation you should call Mr. Roque at (201) 974-2033 ext. 2644. All calls are kept confidential.

Salvatore Manente;

President, SBOE