The Pennsylvania School Boards Association (PSBA) released its response to Governor Wolf’s proposed 2021-22 state budget.
The Governor’s proposal shows that he has assessed and understands the significant and critical needs of public schools, students and communities and PSBA appreciates that many of the long- term challenges have been identified. Proposed investments dedicated to basic education, special education and the school construction reimbursement program called PlanCon show insight from the administration into areas long-requiring additional support from the state. This year, of all years, the needs go well beyond typical expenditure challenges with expenses rising around the impacts to schools stemming from COVID-19.
“The Governor is demonstrating his commitment to public education and we are hopeful and cautiously optimistic that this focus will shine a light on the many long-standing issues that need to be addressed in public education,” said Nathan Mains, PSBA chief executive officer.
With Pennsylvania’s children at the center of the issue, PSBA calls upon Gov. Wolf and a unified General Assembly to work together towards the solutions that will get us to where education can flourish in every part of the state.
“School districts not only need investments in key areas but, savings in the form of mandate relief through legislation like Senate Bill 73, which reinstates a mandate waiver program. Further, we need the charter funding reform that over 300 school districts have officially called for that will put a stop to systemic overpayment for services.” Mains added.
As the administration and lawmakers continue to work towards passage of a state budget, PSBA looks forward to working with them to set the foundation for successful student outcomes for all student in PA.
