Democrats’ Education Scheme Fails to Fund Students
June 13th – Crestwood High School – Hosted by Rep. Ryncavage |
The Commonwealth Court determined that Pennsylvania’s educational funding must be reconsidered, and now the legislature is tasked with reforming public education funding throughout the state. Democrats offered an 87-page bill, rammed it through the legislature, and now believe their work to be done. Republicans know that funding a student’s education requires the input of our schools, parents, and taxpayers. To craft well-informed legislation and empower Pennsylvania’s students the Republican Policy Committee traveled to Crestwood High School to hear directly from our communities. Republicans will continue to work towards a funding plan that supports all students without placing an undue burden on our taxpayers or our school districts.
Key Takeaways:
John Macri
President, Crestwood School Board
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HB2370 favors two classes of schools – Large city schools & lower-income schools. |
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There are NO metrics within HB2370 to hold schools accountable. No reporting on spending, nor results to show student improvements. |
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HB2370 penalizes Crestwood $12 million over 7 years. |
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Crestwood has already raised taxes 10 of the last 11 years! |
Richard Nardone
Finance Director, Crestwood School Board
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District health care costs are the primary driver of year-to-year cost increases. |
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HB2370 rewards school districts that operate inefficiently. |
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Rural school districts cannot consolidate to reduce costs. Geography determines where consolidation can occur, and it is not possible for the entirety of the state. |
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Crestwood School District is efficient and successful, yet is punished by HB2370:
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Low per-student costs |
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Nearly 100% graduation rate |
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Raises taxes to meet economic obligations |
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Danielle Petroski
Parent
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Surrounding school districts have received more funding and opportunity than Crestwood. |
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Financial concerns have increased class sizes, cut teachers, limited extracurriculars, impacted the library, and stalled arts programs. |
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Older school districts, like Crestwood, should have infrastructure needs considered when the legislature discusses school funding. |
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High school property taxes, and inflation, require both parents to work full-time. |
In Case You Missed It:
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“We want the best possible funding for all of our students.”
— Rep. Alec Ryncavage — |
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“This bill [HB2370] penalizes taxpayers and smaller school districts.”
— John Macri —
President, Crestwood School Board |
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“At Crestwood’s expense, dollars are being allocated to other districts.”
— Richard Nardone —
Finance Director, Crestwood School Board |
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“It is not fair for the only answer to be ‘raise the taxes’.”
— Danielle Petroski —
Parent |
Watch the Testimony:
6/13 Full Hearing: Democrats’ Education Scheme Fails to Fund Students
John Macri - President, Crestwood School Board
Richard Nardone - Finance Director, Crestwood School Board
Danielle Petroski - Parent
Questions for the Testifiers