Campaign for Fair Education Funding

I've been learning a lot in the past few weeks about the Campaign for Fair Education Funding. I've learned that Pennsylvania is one of only three states without a Basic Education Funding formula. I've also learned that Pennsylvania has the widest spending gap between wealthy and poor public school districts of any state in the country, and research shows that gap has widened since 2010. Not good! I've learned that the current state funding system is based on political considerations and deals that lawmakers make in Harrisburg. This must change! A child's zip code should not determine the opportunities he'she receives in school. My family lives in the City of Pittsburgh and we want to stay here. We know that sometimes families flee to suburban school districts for better education options. But we choose to stay. And we will make our voices heard to be sure all of our students are set up for success! Without a funding formula, students suffer, whether they attend a city, suburban or rural public school. With an adequate and equitable funding formula in place, it will ensure that all schools have the resources needed for all children to get the education they deserve. 

An education is comprehensive. Recently, my six year old won 1st place for this drawing. What if funding for art classes was to be cut? He can already draw better than I can! 

This is why I am supporting the Campaign for Fair Education Funding. And you can too! The Campaign for Fair Education Funding is a statewide non-partisan effort made up of organizations that, collectively, represent Pennsylvanians from every corner of the state. The campaign includes more than 50 organizations and people, including child advocates, teachers and school administrators, charter schools representatives, church congregations and business leaders. For a complete list of members, visit this page.  

They're fighting for every public school to have the resources necessary to enable every child to meet state academic standards, be prepared for post-secondary success, and become productive, knowledgeable, and engaged adults.  

And you can join them! 

• Support the Campaign. (Simply sign up for the newsletter to stay informed.)
• Contact Your State Legislators. (Time commitment: 5 minutes!)
• Speak Out On Social Media. (A tweet only takes a moment!)
• Participate in an Event. (Two call to action events are coming up.) 

On Tuesday, June 23, there will be a rally in Harrisburg to share your concern with legislators. FREE transportation is being provided for any Pittsburgh families. Go here for more info.  

You can also join this Twitter chat happening on Monday. Let your voice be heard!

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I am hoping for the Fair Funding initiative to be in effect by the time my youngest goes to school! 

 I’m teaming up with the Campaign for Fair Education Funding to speak out for students across Pennsylvania. Although I am receiving some form of compensation, all opinions remain my own. #FairFundingPA