School Choice Program In Pennsylvania: Democrat Gov. Shapiro Struck A Deal with Republicans; Check It Here!

Democratic Governor Josh Shapiro made a surprising move regarding the school choice program in Pennsylvania, Fox News reported.

School Choice Program In Pennsylvania: Democrat Gov. Shapiro Struck A Deal with Republicans (PHOTO: WHYY)

School Choice Program In Pennsylvania Deal By Gov. Shapiro and Republicans

Despite being a supporter of increasing options on school choice program in Pennsylvania, Shapiro struck a deal with Republicans on the state’s first-ever “voucher” program for private and religious schools. He insisted on including $100 million for the school choice program in Pennsylvania in the budget, causing tensions within the Democratic Party.

The unexpected turn of events led to Democratic lawmakers demanding an additional $750 million in aid for public schools, which had not been agreed upon by state Senate Republicans. The voucher program legislation was voted down by state House Democrats, further highlighting the divisions within the party.

The school choice program in Pennsylvania faced opposition from teachers’ unions and school boards, who are traditionally Democratic allies. In an attempt to address the concerns within his party and avoid a budget deadlock, Governor Shapiro decided to give in to partisan squabbling and remove the $100 million appropriation from the budget bill through a line-item veto.

READ ALSO: School Vouchers In Texas: Gov. Abbott Prepared To Call Texas Legislature A Special Session!

Other School Choice Program In Pennsylvania

While expressing disappointment over the inability of the two parties to reach a consensus, Shapiro acknowledged that Democratic Leader Matthew Bradford would explore other education options to address the state’s public education needs. This includes considering programs such as PASS Scholarships, Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC), and Education Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) in light of recent education rulings by the Commonwealth Court.

The decision to remove the funding for the school choice program in Pennsylvania aims to appease members of Shapiro’s own party and facilitate the passage of the state budget. However, it also reflects the challenges and disagreements surrounding education policy and funding within Pennsylvania’s political landscape.

READ ALSO: Tax Relief 2023: Oklahoma Governor Prioritizes Bill For Private, Home-Schooled Students