Education
 

Public education worked for me, and it continues to work for millions of Pennsylvania’s children.  That is why I will continue to vote in favor of education funding increases in the future. 

Here’s what we’ve done.  The state’s share of education funding has increased dramatically over the past 3 years.  Last year, at the conclusion of the FY 2005-06 state budget negotiations in Harrisburg, the basic education subsidy received a 3% increase over the previous year’s appropriation.  Special education and vocational education programs grew by 2.5%, while targeted initiatives provided an additional $43 million in new funds to local school districts. 

Overall, the basic subsidy increase of $129.5 million included a $22.3 million foundation component targeted to low spending school districts.  Those school districts with current expenditures below $8,500 per student received additional supplements, with increased subsidies based upon the relative wealth and tax effort of the school district.  Additional supplements were provided for growth, high tax effort, limited English proficiency, and small districts.  Accordingly, the total basic subsidy spending grew by nearly $4.5 billion. 

However, I believe we can do better in the future.  Decades ago our state government told its citizens that it would contribute 50% of funding toward education.  Please know this is a goal which we must strive to meet.  I believe the legislature can do this if tough choices are made and we become more fiscally responsible with the annual State Budget.  Right now and overall, the state’s share of education funding is hovering around 43%.  The good news, and what we must remember, is that we are making progress.  We must continue working together to ensure our children’s educational future.