Sustainability of budget proposal question
Gov. Josh Shapiro’s state budget is heavy on additional education expenditures that would greatly benefit local K-12 public schools, as well as the county’s two postsecondary institutions — but one superintendent questions the sustainability of the increases.
Should the proposed budget be approved by the General Assembly, school districts in Pennsylvania would see a $103.8 million increase in special education funding, $38.5 million to continue universal free breakfast for all students, $100 million in safety and security grants, and $100 million to reduce and remediate environmental hazards in schools.
Higher education institutions would share an increase in funding of more than $60 million.
Brian White, superintendent at the Butler Area School District, said the budget definitely contains more funding for education than is typical.
“But is it sustainable or is this a one-time increase?” White said. “It would be very helpful, but our challenge is ongoing expenses. Having staff costs money.”
He said he is happy to see the importance Shapiro places on public education, and that some burden will be removed from local taxpayers.
