In Newark schools, they are talking 400 layoffs of teachers and other staff next year, and the state-appointed superintendent is itching to waive seniority requirements.

Camden’s layoff total may hit 400, too, while the district also sees a new influx of charter networks that will draw both students and dollars from the district.

And while Paterson and Jersey City are calmer on the budget front, there is still a great deal to resolve, such as a lapsed teachers contract in Paterson that’s been gathering dust for four years.

As David Hespe starts his second stint as state education commissioner, no greater challenge faces him than the status of New Jersey’s state-controlled school districts, each with its own circumstances — and headaches.

That was in full evidence last week at Hespe’s appearance before the state Senate budget committee for the annual review of the Christie administration’s education budget.

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