It is disheartening to read in the article “Norwin proposes 2.9% hike in school taxes” (April 21, TribLIVE) that Norwin School Board officials are being forced to raise taxes. While covid-19-related revenue shortfalls will drive many area schools to make difficult decisions like Norwin, we can’t ignore other important factors — things like ballooning costs for charter school tuition and student services.
Even before the coronavirus pandemic, Pennsylvania schools were struggling to keep up with rising costs and to head off program cuts. Pennsylvania ranks 44th in the country in the state’s share of funding for public schools. Only about 38% of the costs of public education is covered by the state.
In order to help local districts deal with uncertain revenue and improve outcomes for students, the General Assembly needs to step up. While the state will be dealing with revenue challenges of its own, it is critical that we do not shortchange Pennsylvania public school students. Now more than ever, the General Assembly must step up by working with the governor to ensure public schools receive not a penny less than they did in 2019-20.
Kathy Chenot
North Huntingdon