UPDATE: Pennsylvania schools are facing an urgent crisis as administrators are forced to cut vital programs, freeze hiring, and take on costly loans due to a nearly four-month delay in the state budget. This situation is hitting districts across the state, especially in poorer areas that rely heavily on state funding.
As of now, the budget impasse has caused significant disruptions in schools serving economically disadvantaged communities. “This impasse is kinder and gentler in communities that aren’t like mine,” stated Amy Arcurio, Superintendent of the Greater Johnstown School District, underscoring the disparity faced by districts with limited tax bases.
The Greater Johnstown School District, which serves a struggling former steel city, received only $12.6 million from local taxes out of its $45.6 million budget, with $25.9 million coming from the state. This funding is now on hold.
In a virtual news conference, Sherri Smith of the Pennsylvania Association of School Administrators warned lawmakers that many schools are nearing a tipping point. “More and more districts will not be in a place where all programs can continue,” she cautioned.
Districts like the Scranton School District have already cut after-school tutoring and professional development classes. Superintendent Erin Keating emphasized the need for fiscal conservatism to ensure they can continue paying staff through the end of the year.
Without state funding, options for districts are grim. Those with reserves can spend them down, while others may need to take out loans. Scranton is considering a tax revenue anticipation note to cover costs, which must be paid back within a year, creating a tight financial squeeze.
Meanwhile, the Norristown Area School District is forced to “pause hiring” and delay purchasing instructional materials, while the Franklin Area School District is scaling back essential programs such as early childhood education.
The ongoing stalemate, which marks the longest budget impasse during Governor Josh Shapiro’s tenure, has left many districts scrambling. Historically, budget delays have been resolved by fall, but this year’s situation is particularly dire as schools have already begun their academic year.
In the Keystone Central School District, which has thus far avoided major cuts due to its strong local tax revenue, Superintendent Frank Redmon warns that they will soon face tough choices. With the new year approaching, they may have to decide between spending down reserves or taking out loans, both of which carry significant risks.
The urgency of the situation is echoed by Amy Arcurio, who recently took out a $10 million loan to cover payroll and essential costs through the end of the school year. However, she fears that such measures will lead to severe cuts in programs, particularly those supporting mental health and counseling services.
As the budget impasse continues, the pressure mounts for lawmakers to act swiftly. Schools across Pennsylvania are bracing for further financial strain, with many administrators fearing this situation may become the new norm.
With educational programs at risk and essential services hanging in the balance, the countdown is on for Pennsylvania’s lawmakers. Schools are calling on the state to resolve this crisis before it’s too late.
