Corbet budget for education: larger class size, loss of programs

From Education Voters of Pennsylvania

Yesterday, Governor Corbett announced his funding priorities (and non-funding priorities) for the 2012-2013 budget.

He announced that he will not be restoring any of the extraordinary, historic $900 million in cuts that were made for this year’s budget, so next year looks grim.  There is no hope in sight for schools that have had to deal with painful, harmful cuts this year.  We face a future with more increases in class size and the loss of programs like art, music, technology and athletics.  Schools that are facing fiscal distress or disaster, such as Chester-Upland which made national news for its plight, are faced with entrenched cuts and furthermore, the loss of some of the grants that were funding programs that targeted achievement.

But wait, there's more:  
 
Early Education:

While on the campaign trail, Governor Corbett proclaimed his support for early education but has reduced funding for early education programs for the second year in a row.  Child Care subsidy was cut by 7.4% and Pre-K Counts and Head Start Supplemental Assistance were cut 5% each.  

Higher Education:

Despite the Governor’s claim to support workforce development, he continues to slash funding to higher education.  The PA State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) received a 20% cut ($82.550 million) and state-related schools (Temple, PSU, Univ of Pitt) received a 30% cut.  The PA Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) received a reduction of 6.4%.

It is evident in this budget that Governor Corbett does not support public education, the students who attend public schools, local communities that are working to recover from the economic downturn or the future workforce of Pennsylvania.   His proposals and his actions show that his priorities are drastically different from the majority of Pennsylvanians.  It is a question of values and Pennsylvanians value a quality education for EVERY child.

The Governor’s proposal starts the process, but it isn’t all decided: our legislators can play an important role in standing up for our priorities.  Last year, public outcry helped prevent nearly $300 million in additional cuts.  We heard from the Governor, and we know where he stands.  Now, we need to ask our legislators: what is your position on supporting our schools?   

Visit here to send an email to your legislator and ask about his/her reaction to Governor Corbett’s budget.  Do they agree with Governor Corbett’s budget priorities?  Are they willing to fight for public education during this budget process?

Throughout this budget process, we will keep you posted on new information as it becomes available.  Stay involved by following us on Twitter and becoming a friend on Facebook.

Sincerely,
Susan Gobreski
Executive Director