Will Pennsylvania Pols Do the Right Thing on School Choice this Time?

​A school voucher program in Pennsylvania, previously vetoed by Gov. Josh Shapiro, is getting a second chance.
 
The Senate Education Committee has advanced the PASS scholarship, setting it up for budget negotiations. Last year, Shapiro expressed support for the scholarships but vetoed them when faced with opposition from his fellow Democrats in the Pennsylvania House. These scholarships would provide low-income students in underperforming public schools with funds to attend private schools. The money could also cover school-related fees and special education services.
 
Shapiro's veto message last year hinted at the possibility of reviving the scholarships, a sentiment he reiterated in his recent budget address. The current challenge remains the Democratic-majority House, influenced heavily by teachers' unions opposed to the program. The Senate leadership's firm stance and Shapiro's potential influence could lead to a different outcome this time.
 
Public support for the scholarships is significant. A poll by the Commonwealth Foundation in March found 77 percent of registered voters in favor, including 94 percent of Black voters and 83 percent of those with incomes below $40,000. This support underscores the demand for alternatives to struggling public schools, especially in places like Philadelphia, where proficiency in basic subjects is alarmingly low.
 
The PASS scholarship program aims to provide up to $10,000 for students in the lowest-performing districts to attend private schools. Unlike other voucher programs, it wouldn't divert funds from public schools. Yet public school advocates argue that funds should focus on improving the public education system.
 
The debate over the school voucher program is set to intensify during the 2025 budget negotiations between the Republican-controlled Senate and the Democratic-controlled House. The outcome could significantly impact educational opportunities for many low-income students in Pennsylvania.
 
If you live in Pennsylvania, Protect The 1st urges you to weigh in with your state representative and state senator.