Issue #2 for 2009: Your zip code is NOT your destiny - Equality in educational funding

Pennsylvania has high state standards for the academic achievement of students in public schools. These standards are mandatory for all students and schools. The results of the recent costing-out study suggest that the state does not currently provide the resources needed for all students to receive a quality education and reach the state standards. In short, the state’s education funding system is broken, allowing severe funding gaps and the resulting achievement gaps between school districts to limit the educational and career opportunities for children throughout Pennsylvania.

Under the current funding system, the state does not hold itself accountable for providing enough educational resources to all students and schools. Without real responsibility at the state level, there can be no accountability at the local level. The Governor and the General Assembly must close the funding gap before they can expect local schools to successfully close the achievement gap for all students.

The Pennsylvania Senate also has a resolution pending – Senate Resolution 26 – to form a joint legislative committee that will address the issues of unequal funding of education.

Please post comments: Share your stories and concersn about unequal educational funding in PA school districts!