In Harrisburg, 6,500 kids are trapped in a district with dismal test scores, persistent violence, and shocking fiscal mismanagement.
Funding isn't the problem. Harrisburg public schools spend more than $20,000 per student, yet more than 90% of students aren't meeting proficiency standards.
Pa. House Speaker Mike Turzai has a solution: Tuition scholarships to attend the best, safest school possible.
Yet Gov. Wolf—a graduate of private school who sent his children to private school—and the state rep for Harrisburg—who sends her kids to private school—want these kids to remain in failing schools until they can find a way to improve the school district. Who knows how long that could take...they've been working on government solutions here for decades.
HB 1800 would provide a lifeline for kids now. Students in the Harrisburg School District—and potentially other districts under state receivership—would be given true school choice no matter their zip code or income.
HB 1800 passed out of the House Education Committee last week, but it faces opposition. Every Democrat on the committee voted 'no,' as did two Republicans. (Here's the roll call.)
Too many who wear the mantle of 'progressive' have abandoned bold solutions for the sake of politics. Lawmakers need to hear from constituents like you who want real change. Could you please call or email your lawmaker this week to express support for HB 1800? Members are back in their districts for the Thanksgiving holiday, but will return to session in December.
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