Friend,

As Democratic Chair of the Senate Education Committee, our state’s students are always top of mind for me.

Right now, two stories are weighing heavily on me — both reminders of just how far we still have to go to protect and support every student in Pennsylvania.

First, Pennsylvania’s largest cyber charter school says it is unreasonable to expect them to see and hear from students weekly — even after one of their students died. To make sure this doesn’t happen again, schools should at least see a child a minimum of once a week. When it comes to protecting our kids, we can’t take shortcuts, and we should do more than the bare minimum. We need to pull out all the stops.

Second, as we work on Pennsylvania’s budget, I’m pushing to include funding for free breakfast and lunch for all students. My measure would also ban schools from disciplining students who aren’t able to pay. Free school meals are an essential part of public education funding, and it’s time we prioritize them. 

These are different issues, but they speak to the same truth: Our education system hasn’t been enough of a priority. 

As Democratic Chair of the Senate Education Committee, I’ve seen firsthand how cyber charters take public dollars with zero transparency, and I’ve seen how students are burdened with hunger and budget cuts.

That’s why I’m fighting for real accountability, funding for free school meals, and the stipulations our schools need to keep students safe, healthy, and supported. If you believe every child deserves an environment where they are cared for and supported, I hope you’ll consider standing with me.

Thank you,

Lindsey Williams