Schweyer encouraged by education proposals in budget address
Rep. Peter G. Schweyer February 5, 2025 | 9:35 AM
HARRISBURG, Feb. 4 – State Rep. Peter Schweyer, Majority Chair of the Pennsylvania House Education Committee, released the following statement today regarding Governor Shapiro’s budget address:
“Today, the Governor told the legislature and families across Pennsylvania that he intends to continue to build on the plan to ensure there is a quality education for every student from kindergarten to college regardless of their zip code. It was made clear during last year’s budget that the historic investments in education would be the first year of a multi-year plan to bring adequacy, equity and accountability into the school funding system.
“This budget proposal continues to focus on ensuring the school districts with the most need are receiving the funding they need. It calls for a $75M increase in Basic Education Funding and $40M in Special Education Funding. These investments mean school districts will have more qualified educators in their classrooms, better access to state-of-the-art technology, more books in the libraries and school buildings with safe and comfortable learning environments.
“The budget plan also calls for continuing to expand access to career and technical education, so students who wish to enter the trades will be able to do so. It also recommends continuing funding for the popular Student Teacher Stipend Program and cyber charter school funding reform to save taxpayers from wasteful spending and ensuring money for education is spent on education.
“The proposals the Governor outlined today are encouraging; and my committee is ready to get to work to advance these initiatives. I also look forward to having honest discussions and finding opportunities for consensus on key issues with my friends from across the aisle,” said Schweyer.