Kean University has a new poll out that shows that, based on responses of 1,000 residents, 70% of New Jerseyans are satisfied with our public education system.

One notable change in sentiment: 63% of residents favor mergers of school districts to save money. Maybe our affection for home rule is now outweighed by concerns about taxes, although since 1982 there have been only four mergers.

Also, the majority of voters – 75% — support merit pay for teachers and 68% think standardized tests are an important accountability measure. 39% of those surveyed support charter school expansion, while 35% are opposed