Keystone State Education Coalition

Established in 2006, the Keystone State Education Coalition is a growing grass roots, non-partisan public education advocacy group of several hundred locally elected, volunteer school board members and administrators from school districts throughout Pennsylvania. Our mission is to evaluate, discuss and inform our boards, district constituents and legislators on legislative issues of common interest and to facilitate active engagement in public education advocacy.

Friday, May 30, 2014

PA Ed Policy Roundup May 30: Here's a school choice: markets do not ensure equity, social justice, civic engagement, and opportunity for all.

Daily postings from the Keystone State Education Coalition now reach more than 3250 Pennsylvania education policymakers – school directors, administrators, legislators, legislative and congressional staffers, Governor's staff, current/former PA Secretaries of Education, PTO/PTA officers, parent advocates, teacher leaders, education professors, members of the press and a broad array of P-16 regulatory agencies, professional associations and education advocacy organizations via emails, website, Facebook and Twitter

These daily emails are archived and searchable at http://keystonestateeducationcoalition.org

Visit us on Facebook at KeystoneStateEducationCoalition

Follow us on Twitter at @lfeinberg

The Keystone State Education Coalition is pleased to be listed among the friends and allies of The Network for Public Education. Are you a member?

Keystone State Education Coalition

Pennsylvania Education Policy Roundup for May 30, 2014:

Here's a school choice: markets do not ensure equity, social justice, civic engagement, and opportunity for all.

Blogger's note - Stark contrasts in the news today: Philly underfunding; suburban districts passing budgets; New Orleans closing last public school for a system of separate and unequal charters…..

"On the one hand, proponents of school choice would be thrilled – a major American city leads the way. In the eyes of national educational reformers, Philadelphia would now be their neoliberal poster child posed in front of Independence Hall. Most parents would be satisfied, although their children might not always be able to attend their first-choice schools. But regardless, individual preference would be the hallmark, and the books would be balanced. On the other hand, we are all citizens of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, which should remind us that we are “people united by common interest.” Because it is perceived to be in the people’s interest, the Commonwealth requires that all its children be educated at public expense. In Philadelphia that common interest has long meant support for a single public school system, with a robust parochial and independent school network as an option.

The city’s public schools have accepted all children regardless of race, ethnicity, religious belief, socio-economic status, special need or spoken language. And the School District of Philadelphia has served a common purpose as reflected in its common curriculum and standards. A strong public school system has been considered in our common interest.

Which should suggest a caution: As our public schools slide inexorably into a new form of organization, we need to keep in mind that markets do not ensure equity, social justice, civic engagement, and opportunity for all."

Philly Takeover or turnaround? The School District's prospects

the notebook by James H. Lytle on May 29 2014 Posted in Commentary

James H. Lytle is Practice Professor of Educational Leadership at the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education, a former District administrator, and a former superintendent in Trenton.

One of the undercurrents floating among parents and teachers is that the School District’s financial crisis has been created by elected officials and their allies in order to “charterize” and privatize the entire District. Would this strategy be an answer to the budget problem? Charter schools can be significantly cheaper to operate than District schools, and demand from parents is high and growing. Were the District to become, essentially, a system of charter schools, with the School Reform Commission as authorizer, then perhaps we might have both a balanced budget and happy parents. It may at first sound far-fetched or overblown, it may not. But it’s a scenario that’s looking like the SRC’s only practicable option other than bankruptcy. Because without substantial funding increases, the School District, as is, cannot be sustained.

http://thenotebook.org/blog/147283/takeover-or-turnaround-school-district-philadelphia-prospects

Here's over a billion dollars in funding that the state has simply stopped paying and pushed down to local taxpayers…

Corbett budget skips school construction $$ for the 3rd year: Thursday Morning Coffee

By John L. Micek | jmicek@pennlive.com on May 29, 2014 at 8:58 AM, updated May 29, 2014 at 10:09 AM

Good Thursday Morning, Fellow Seekers. We may be writing these words within eyeshot of the tranquil waters of the Gulf of Mexico, but we still have our focus keenly trained on goings-on in the Keystone State. Thus do we bring you news this morning that, for the third year in a row, school districts looking to fix leaky roofs and other crumbling infrastructure will have to do it on the backs of local taxpayers. That's because the Corbett administration's budget proposal for the fiscal year that begins July 1 continues a moratorium on funding new projects, our friends at The Tribune-Review report this morning. The administration cut funding for new building applications in 2012, stalling 354 projects in various stages of completion or capital planning. At least 200 have since been financed -- some even finished -- with the expectation of state reimbursement that still hasn't come, the newspaper reports.

http://blog.pennlive.com/capitol-notebook/2014/05/corbett_budget_skips_school_co.html

Passing Pa.'s standardized test to graduate from high school derided as 'unfunded mandate'

WHYY Newsworks BY KEVIN MCCORRY MAY 28, 2014

State Sen. Andrew Dinniman, (D-Chester County), introduced legislation in Harrisburg Wednesday that would exempt Pennsylvania high school students from having to pass standardized tests to graduate. Starting with the class of 2017, Pennsylvania law dictates that students must show proficiency on Keystone standardized tests in Algebra I, Biology and Language Arts before earning diplomas. Dinniman said recent state cuts to classroom education budgets make this requirement an "unfunded mandate" that will simply "stamp failure" on many students coming from impoverished school districts. Dinniman's proposal, S.B. 1382, would leave graduation requirements up to individual districts.

http://www.newsworks.org/index.php/homepage-feature/item/68460-passing-pas-standardized-test-to-graduate-high-school-derided-as-unfunded-mandate?linktype=hp_impact

"With a new superintendent and high school principal, the district has worked hard to promote itself as the "New" Chester Upland with stronger academics and less violence.

The effort has paid off, officials said, with a 900-student bump in enrollment this year.

The district is betting on even more students signing up next year, which is why its anticipated charter-school payment is $6 million less than this year."

Chester school district's deficit may be shrinking

KATHY BOCCELLA, INQUIRER STAFF WRITER LAST UPDATED: Friday, May 30, 2014, 1:08 AM POSTED: Thursday, May 29, 2014, 8:03 PM

Chester Upland School District has been down so long that next year's $18 million budget gap looks like up. School officials said the shortfall in the proposed $123 million spending plan - unveiled Thursday - is $5 million less than this year's deficit, which passes for good news in this era of extreme belt tightening by schools.

http://www.philly.com/philly/education/20140530_Chester_school_district_s_deficit_may_be_shrinking.html#I8RbzZXkpGFbxeEL.99

SRC refuses to pass budget with 'unacceptable' cuts

KRISTEN A. GRAHAM, INQUIRER STAFF WRITER LAST UPDATED: Friday, May 30, 2014, 1:08 AM POSTED: Thursday, May 29, 2014, 10:12 PM

Taking an unexpected, unprecedented stand, the School Reform Commission refused Thursday night to pass a 2014-15 budget. Its officials said they would deliberately violate the City Charter by not approving a spending plan. A visibly frustrated Superintendent William R. Hite Jr. said he could not recommend the $2.4 billion budget "as educationally sound or economically prudent for the city or state." "Our severely under-resourced school system threatens the future of one of America's greatest cities," Hite said. He said the district needed $216 million more just to get to this year's service levels, which he called inadequate, and $440 million more from the city, state, and labor unions to open schools in decent shape.

http://www.philly.com/philly/education/20140530_SRC_refuses_to_pass_budget_with__unacceptable__cuts.html#j5I3mcK8Yz7LmD9t.99

"Michael Churchill of the Public Interest Law Center of Philadelphia urged the SRC to invite Gov. Corbett to come to an SRC meeting to hear how city students have so much less spent on them than students in surrounding, wealthier districts.

Ask him, Churchill urged, "why this is OK."

SRC won't adopt 'Doomsday II' budget

the notebook by Dale Mezzacappa on May 29 2014 Posted in Latest news

[Updated 11:30 p.m.] The School Reform Commission declined Thursday to adopt a budget proposal that would raise class sizes as high as 41, cut 800 teachers, reduce special education services to their bare minimum, prevent all but the most basic building maintenance, and make further cuts in services like counselors and nurses. The SRC made the decision even though failing to adopt a budget before the end of May violates the city charter. "Rather than adopting a 'Doomsday II' budget – and give anyone the impression that the cuts it contains are feasible or acceptable – we are going to not act on the budget tonight," announced SRC Chairman Bill Green. "Instead, we will continue to focus our energy and attention on securing the needed funding for our schools."

http://thenotebook.org/blog/147306/src-wont-adopt-doomsday-two-budget

Philly School Reform Commission refuses to adopt 'empty shell' budget

WHYY Newsworks BY KEVIN MCCORRY MAY 29, 2014

After receiving a devastatingly bleak portrait of the potentially necessary cuts to the Philadelphia School District's bottom line, the School Reform Commission defied the city charter Thursday night by refusing to adopt a budget for fiscal year 2015. The district currently faces a $440 million budget shortfall. It needs $216 million in additional revenue merely to open schools next year with this year's bare-bones, "doomsday" level of services. The additional $224 million would help the district implement Superintendent William Hite's vision for system-wide growth.

The district currently cannot count on any of this funding.

http://www.newsworks.org/index.php/local/item/68560-philly-school-reform-commission-refuses-to-adopt-empty-shell-budget?linktype=hp_impact

"As a manager, I have to present a budget, but as an educator, I do not support this proposed budget," an emotional Hite said. "Until there is more certainty around revenue from the state and the city [I am recommending] that the SRC do not take action on this budget." The SRC backed the move, which drew a standing ovation from parents, students and education advocates who packed the auditorium at the district's headquarters on North Broad Street."

SRC eschews 'doomsday' vote

SOLOMON LEACH, DAILY NEWS STAFF WRITER LEACHS@PHILLYNEWS.COM, 215-854-5903 POSTED: Friday, May 30, 2014, 12:16 AM

I N AN unprecedented move, the School Reform Commission opted yesterday not to vote on a proposed "doomsday" budget that would have required more than 1,000 layoffs, significantly increased class sizes, reduced school police and special-education services. Under the city charter, the school district is required to adopt a budget by May 30. Superintendent William Hite said the district needs a clearer answer from city and state lawmakers on the district's request for an additional $216 million before it can come up with a realistic spending plan.

http://www.philly.com/philly/news/20140530_SRC_eschews__doomsday__vote.html#OJy5IhJdRp7Sqy6u.99

Divided Radnor Township School Board adopts $85.9 million budget

By Linda Stein lstein@mainlinemedianews.com Published: Wednesday, May 28, 2014

In a 5-4 vote along party lines, the Radnor Township School Board Tuesday adopted an $85.9 million budget for the 2014-2015 school year. The budget, which does not raise real estate taxes, includes funding for full day kindergarten and requires no program cuts. The millage rate was kept at 21.7122 mills. The board also appropriated $1,062,922 from the fund balance [savings] toward the district’s share of the employee retirement contribution. Also, $217,140 was earmarked for the student iPad program at Radnor High School.

http://www.mainlinemedianews.com/articles/2014/05/28/main_line_suburban_life/news/doc5385f2129fe2c180202037.txt?viewmode=fullstory

"As in years past, it is the jump in contributions to the state Public School Employees’ Retirement System that is the biggest attention-grabber. That total is pegged at $6.9 million for the next fiscal year, for an increase of 26.4 percent over 2013-14."

Wallingford-Swarthmore approves budget

Delco Times By NEIL A. SHEEHAN, Times Correspondent POSTED: 05/29/14, 10:40 PM EDT |

NETHER PROVIDENCE — With more than a month to spare before the deadline, the Wallingford-Swarthmore School Board has already given the final thumbs-up to the district’s budget for fiscal year 2014-15. There were no comments from anyone on the board or members of the public prior to the 7-1 vote in favor of the $71.3 million spending plan on Monday night. Board member Richard Sonntag was absent while Vincent Marriott participated by phone.

Robert Reiger cast the only “no” vote, but did not offer an explanation for that decision.

Property owners will see their school taxes rise by 2.1 percent under the budget. That will translate into a hike of $149 for a property assessed at the district average assessed value of about $178,000, for a total of $7,215.

http://www.delcotimes.com/social-affairs/20140529/wallingford-swarthmore-approves-budget

"O’Donnell noted the major increases in the budget are retirement and health care, which combined have raised about 25 percent. He cited the Public School Employees’ Retirement System, which has hiked from 16.9 percent to 21.4 percent."

Rose Tree Media OKs 1.9 percent tax spike

Delco Times by LESLIE KROWCHENKO POSTED: 05/29/14, 10:42 PM EDT |

MIDDLETOWN — The Rose Tree Media School Board, which earlier this year committed to a tax increase no higher than the Act I index of 2.1 percent, adopted an $87.3 million final 2014-2015 budget and corresponding 1.9 percent tax hike. Set by the state, the Act I index determines the maximum increase which can be levied by each school district, unless application for exceptions is made to the Pennsylvania Department of Education. The last time the board made a request was in 2009, when taxes were raised 4.8 percent.

http://www.delcotimes.com/social-affairs/20140529/rose-tree-media-oks-19-percent-tax-spike

In New Orleans, major school district closes traditional public schools for good

Washington Post WRITTEN BY Lyndsey Layton PUBLISHED: MAY 28

NEW ORLEANS — The second-graders paraded to the Dumpster in the rear parking lot, where they chucked boxes of old work sheets, notebooks and other detritus into the trash, emptying their school for good. Benjamin Banneker Elementary closed Wednesday as New Orleans’s Recovery School District permanently shuttered its last five traditional public schools this week.

With the start of the next school year, the Recovery School District will be the first in the country made up completely of public charter schools, a milestone for New Orleans and a grand experiment in urban education for the nation.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/education/in-new-orleans-traditional-public-schools-close-for-good/2014/05/28/ae4f5724-e5de-11e3-8f90-73e071f3d637_story.html?tid=pm_pop

New Orleans' Recovery School District Is Officially an All-Charter System

Education Week District Dossier Blog By Lesli A. Maxwell on May 29, 2014 10:18 AM

Nine years after Louisiana education officials swept most of New Orleans' chronically under-performing schools into a state-controlled district after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, the last handful of non-charter, "traditional" schools run by the Recovery School District have been closed for good. As reported this morning by the Washington Post's Lyndsey Layton, and reported many months ago by the Times-Picayune, the Recovery School District—which at one time operated nearly 35 schools—has converted fully to an all-charter school system. The last five schools the RSD operated directly will not reopen again in September. Hundreds of RSD teachers and other employees will lose their jobs as the district evolves to manage issues such as citywide truancy, special education, and the common application system for charter schools.

It's a breathtaking makeover of an urban school system that, before the hurricane, had 120 schools and 60,000 students run by an elected school board that was bedeviled by mismanagement and corruption.

http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/District_Dossier/2014/05/new_orleans_recovery_district_.html

"Formula for success: close public schools. Open charter schools. Fire veteran teachers. Replace them with TFA. Spend billions to refurbish buildings. This is the same formula that is being imported to urban districts across the nation. Is it sustainable? Did it really “work” or is this a manufactured success, bolstered by billions from the Waltons and other philanthropists who favor privatization?"

Triumph of Reform: Last Public School in New Orleans Closes

Diane Ravitch's Blog By dianeravitch May 29, 2014 //

Lyndsey Layton of the Washington Post describes the triumph of the reform movement in New Orleans: The last public school has closed for good. A few observations.

All schools in New Orleans are now charter schools. It’s hard to compare achievement pre-and post-Katrina because so many students never returned after the hurricane. Test scores are up, graduation rates are up, but populations are different. “By most indicators, school quality and academic progress have improved in Katrina’s aftermath, although it’s difficult to make direct comparisons because the student population changed drastically after the hurricane, with thousands of students not returning.

http://dianeravitch.net/2014/05/29/triumph-of-reform-last-public-school-in-new-orleans-closes/

Common Core School Standards Face a New Wave of Opposition

New York Times By MOTOKO RICH MAY 29, 2014

Opposition to the Common Core, a set of reading and math standards for elementary, middle and high school students that were originally adopted by 46 states and the District of Columbia, has gathered momentum among state lawmakers in recent weeks. The governors of Oklahoma and South Carolina are considering signing bills to repeal the standards and replace them with locally written versions. In Missouri, lawmakers passed a bill that would require a committee of state educators to come up with new standards within the next two years. Although the Common Core, developed by a coalition convened by the National Governors Association and the Council of Chief State School Officers, was initially backed by a group of Republican governors, the Obama administration also lent its support. For the past year, conservative Republicans, seizing on the administration’s backing, have argued that the standards amount to a federal takeover of public schools.

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/30/education/common-core-standards-face-a-new-wave-of-opposition.html?ref=education&_r=0

"We support higher standards and rigor in the classroom, but every day, concern among parents is growing over Common Core. The feds are taking over and rushing this. Let's face it: centralized planning didn't work in Russia, it's not working with our health care system and it won't work in education. Education is best left to local control," said Jindal through a written statement."

Bobby Jindal accused of playing 'presidential politics' with Common Core

By Julia O'Donoghue, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune on May 22, 2014 at 6:30 AM,

After weeks of ratcheting up the anti-Common Core rhetoric, Gov. Bobby Jindal issued some of his most blistering remarks on the academic standards yet Wednesday night (May 21).

The governor was responding to a letter sent by 33 state lawmakers urging him to block the use of a Common Core-associated test. He had made similar declarations in a USA TODAY opinion piece last month, but his comments regarding the local Louisiana dispute over Common Core are usually more measured.

http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2014/05/is_bobby_jindal_playing_presid.html

2014 CONFERENCE ON THE STATE OF EDUCATION IN PENNSYLVANIA

60 YEARS AFTER BROWN HOW ARE THE CHILDREN? WHAT ARE THE ISSUES?

Saturday, May 31, 2014 - 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (8:30 Registration)

MARCUS FOSTER STUDENT UNION 2^ND FLR. CHEYNEY UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA, DE Co. Campus

Keynote Speaker: Dan Hardy – Retired Reporter -Philadelphia Inquirer

Distressed Schools: How Did it Come to This?

PANELS:

The State of Education in Pennsylvania 60 Years after Brown
Keystones and Graduation: Cut the Connection
How Harrisburg Cut District Funding, Poured on the Keystones, and Connected them to Graduation
Financing Our Schools: What Does it Cost to Educate a Child in 2014 and How Should We Fund It?
Effective Advocacy – How to be Heard in Harrisburg - And - What We Need to be Saying

For more info and registration: http://www.naacpmediabranch.org/#

Apply Now! EPLC’s 2014-2015 Education Policy Fellowship Program

Education Policy and Leadership Center

Click here to read more about EPLC’s Education Policy Fellowship Program, including: 2014-15 Schedule 2014-15 Application Past Speakers Program Alumni And More Information

PCCY invites you to get on the School Spirit Bus to Harrisburg on Tuesday June 10th for Fair and Full School Funding!

Public Citizens for Children and Youth

On Tuesday June 10^th, Public Citizens for Children and Youth (PCCY) will be going to Harrisburg. Join committed parents, leaders, and community members from around state to make it clear to Harrisburg that PA students need fair and full funding now! We are providing free transportation to and from Harrisburg as well as lunch. Please arrive at the United Way Building located at 1709 Benjamin Franklin Parkway no later than8:15am. The bus will depart at 8:30am sharp! Reserve your seat today by emailing us at info@pccy.org or calling us at 215-563-5848 x11. You can download and share our flyer by clicking here. We hope to see you there!

Pennsylvania Education Summit Wednesday, June 11, 2014 from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM (EDT) Camp Hill, PA

PA Business-Education Partnership

Featuring:

Welcome By Governor Tom Corbett (invited)

Remarks Acting Secretary of Education Carolyn Dumaresq (confirmed)

Perceptions & comments of business leaders, educators, college presidents, and advocacy groups

Full agenda here: http://www.bipac.net/pbc/2014-PA-Education-Summit-Agenda.pdf

Registration: http://www.eventbrite.com/e/pennsylvania-education-summit-tickets-11529363637?aff=eorgf

2014 PA Gubernatorial Candidate Plans for Education and Arts/Culture in PA

Education Policy and Leadership Center

Below is an alphabetical list of the 2014 Gubernatorial Candidates and links to information about their plans, if elected, for education and arts/culture in Pennsylvania. This list will be updated, as more information becomes available.

http://www.eplc.org/2014-gubernatorial-candidate-plans-for-education-and-artsculture-in-pa/

Thursday, May 29, 2014

PA Ed Policy Roundup May 29: Keystone Exams: Pa. bill would end plans for mandatory graduation tests

These daily emails are archived and searchable at http://keystonestateeducationcoalition.org

Visit us on Facebook at KeystoneStateEducationCoalition

Follow us on Twitter at @lfeinberg

The Keystone State Education Coalition is pleased to be listed among the friends and allies of The Network for Public Education. Are you a member?

Keystone State Education Coalition

Pennsylvania Education Policy Roundup for May 29, 2014:

Keystone Exams: Pa. bill would end plans for mandatory graduation tests

What do the VA & Philly schools have in common?

Tweet from Signe Wilkinson

pic.twitter.com/PrXi3xX7gc

Keystone Exams: Pa. bill would end plans for mandatory graduation tests

KATHY BOCCELLA, INQUIRER STAFF WRITER LAST UPDATED: Thursday, May 29, 2014, 1:08 AM POSTED: Wednesday, May 28, 2014, 5:27 PM

A bill that would eliminate a key component of the state's Common Core curriculum - passing proficiency tests to graduate from high school - was introduced Wednesday by Sen. Andrew Dinniman (D., Chester), his third attempt to send the tests to the back of the class. Critics have argued that the tests represent an unfunded mandate for school districts and penalize students from underprivileged schools. Dinniman, co-chairman of the Senate Education Committee, has also sought funding for districts to administer the tests, and to limit the test subjects to biology, algebra, and language arts. Acting State Education Secretary Carolyn Dumaresq has said she would not increase the number of tests for the time being.

OK, its not exactly Game of Thrones but if you are concerned with the overemphasis on testing and with adequate/equitable school funding nuke up some popcorn and check this out….and thanks to Senator Dinniman and his staff for putting this event together.

Video of May 21st Southeastern Pennsylvania Roundtable Discussion on Education hosted by Senator Dinniman

On May 21st, State Senator Andy Dinniman brought together education professionals and advocates from throughout the southeast region for a roundtable discussion on critical issues in education at the Technical College High School – Brandywine Campus. Discussion included the focus on testing and the Keystone Graduation Exams along with the need to adequately support and sustain public education for the future. The panel featured education professionals from Bucks, Chester, Montgomery, Delaware and Philadelphia counties as well as representatives from major education organizations. The video from the event is now available for viewing on Keystone on Demand (video runtime 1:56): http://video.paiunet.org/videos/view/753

Here's local coverage of the above panel discussion….

Schools want more state funding to cover cost of Keystone Exams

Pottstown Mercury By Ginger Rae Dunbar, gdunbar@21st-centurymedia.com POSTED: 05/27/14

DOWNINGTOWN — School officials from five counties gathered recently to say that Pennsylvania school district budgets need more state funding as the mandated Keystone Exams are costly in preparation time and testing expenses. State Sen. Andrew Dinniman, co-chairman of the senate education committee, hosted the education roundtable to listen to the issues concerning public education funds.

http://www.pottsmerc.com/general-news/20140527/schools-want-more-state-funding-to-cover-cost-of-keystone-exams

State pension reform plan could save Pennsylvania taxpayers billions

Despite long-term savings, the bill proposed by a Schuylkill County lawmaker faces uncertain future.

By Steve Esack, Call Harrisburg Bureau 9:10 p.m. EDT, May 28, 2014

HARRISBURG — Depending on who is counting, a bill to change the state's debt-laden public pension systems could save taxpayers $10 billion to $14.2 billion over three decades, according to a report issued Tuesday by the Public Employee Retirement Commission. The State Employee Retirement and Public School Retirement systems are carrying $50.5 billion in debt, mostly from past-due payments the state and school districts skipped. The bill the commission reviewed does not tackle the old-debt problem; instead it looks to reduce future pension costs. Under the bill, sponsored by Rep. Mike Tobash, R-Schuylkill, new employees could apply the first $50,000 of their salaries toward guaranteed benefits under the state or school pension plans. Any salary above that would be covered by a 401(k)-style private plan, which would produce the long-term savings for taxpayers. But there is no guarantee the Legislature will approve the bill because it is tied to another pension plan floated by Gov. Tom Corbett as part of his 2014-15 budget proposal.

Hybrid pension plan for school, state employees projected to produce $11 billion in savings over 30 years

By Jan Murphy | jmurphy@pennlive.com on May 28, 2014 at 2:52 PM

A proposed pension reform plan that would change the design of the state and school employees' retirement plans would eventually erase the pension systems' $47.5 billion debt and introduce a mandatory 401k-style retirement-savings plan for new public employees. The hybrid defined benefit-defined contribution plan would produce a projected $11 billion of savings in taxpayers' contributions to the systems over the next 30 years, according to an independent actuarial study commissioned and approved by the Public Employees Retirement Commission this morning.

Other actuarial studies put the 30-year savings between $6.5 billion and $13 billion, depending on the assumptions built into them, said commission executive director James McAneny.

http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2014/05/hybrid_pension_plan_for_school.html

Hybrid pension reform plan for future school and state employees draws mixed reviews

By Jan Murphy | jmurphy@pennlive.com on May 28, 2014 at 6:11 PM

A newly released pension reform idea that would move future state and school employees into a plan that combines the guaranteed benefits that they have now with the riskier 401k-style plan many in the private sector have is drawing mixed reviews. View full sizeA hybrid pension reform plan that is now under consideration that combines a defined benefit plan with a defined contribution plan for future school and state employees is drawing mixed reviews.

The shift to this so-called hybrid defined benefit-defined contribution plan is seen by its chief architect, Rep. Mike Tobash, R-Schuylkill, as a way to move the State Employees' Retirement System and Public School Employees' Retirement System into a more sustainable way of providing taxpayer-funded pension benefits to future public employees.

But others question whether it puts public workers' retirement security in jeopardy or goes far enough.

http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2014/05/hybrid_pension_reform_plan_for.html

Pension changes could save Pa. $11 billion over 30 years, analysis says

WHYY Newsworks BY MARY WILSON MAY 28, 2014

Pennsylvania House lawmakers have the actuarial analysis they need to start collecting votes on a measure to overhaul the state's pension plans. A state commission central to the debate over changing public pension benefits in Pennsylvania has said its consulting actuary finds that the amended House proposal would save more than $11 billion for the commonwealth over a 30-year span. The measure would change pension benefits only for future state and school employees, setting up a hybrid plan – part would be the traditional defined-benefit pension, and part would be a 401(k)-style plan. Current employees are enrolled in a defined-benefit pension plan.

http://www.newsworks.org/index.php/local/item/68498-pa-pension-changes-could-mean-30-million-actuary-says?linktype=hp_topstory

Bangor Area School District looks at cutting wood shop, sewing classes to lower proposed tax hike

Lehigh Valley Live By Lynn Ondrusek on May 29, 2014 at 6:00 AM

Some hands-on classes in the Bangor Area School District may be cut in order to save taxpayers money. Superintendent Frank DeFelice at Tuesday night's school board meeting recommended cutting wood shop classes in the middle and high school, sewing classes in the high school and not filling seven staff positions. He said the staff cuts would come through attrition. The savings could take a proposed 2.7 percent tax hike down to less than 1 percent.

http://www.lehighvalleylive.com/slate-belt/index.ssf/2014/05/bangor_area_school_district_su.html#incart_river

"At nearly $1 million, the total, conservative number for the costs would have been enough to pay about 20 teachers for one school year, according to the district. The fight began around 2008."

Cost of Pocono Mountain Charter School fight nears $1 million

Another $120,000 spent by district, charter since September

By Jenna Ebersole Pocono Record Writer May 19, 2014

The Pocono Mountain Charter School legal war has cost taxpayers another $120,000 since mid-September, and roughly $920,000 since its start. The charter school and Pocono Mountain School District provided updated figures for the fight this week. The two sides together have averaged at least $15,000 per month in legal fees since September and have spent about the same amount in that time, with the district spending about $59,000 and the charter about $60,000.

http://www.poconorecord.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20140519/NEWS/405190321

New Hope founder plans private K-12 school

York Dispatch By ERIN JAMES UPDATED: 05/19/2014

The company that manages New Hope Academy Charter School — which will close in June — is planning to open a private school. The Hilda Goodling Impact Academy at 200 E. Princess St. will serve students in grades K-12, said Denise Stouffer, assistant managing officer for 3Cord Inc. Stouffer said 3Cord is planning to open the academy in the fall. Enrollment is open now, but a target number of students has not yet been decided, she said. "We're still in that planning phase," Stouffer said. According to the school's website, http://hgiacademy.org, the school will offer three academy programs — entrepreneurial, sports science and performing arts. The website also lays out tuition costs for the private school. For elementary and middle school students, the cost is $8,500 annually. That cost increases to $9,395 for high school students.

The academy, according to its website, will charge special-education students $12,500 annually.

http://www.yorkdispatch.com/news/ci_25791823/new-hope-founder-plans-private-k-12-school

Philly charter head calls state Supreme Court decision against his school 'political'

WHYY Newsworks BY KEVIN MCCORRY MAY 28, 2014

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruled Tuesday in favor of the School Reform Commission in a case involving student enrollment caps at a Philadelphia charter school. In a unanimous decision overturning a lower court ruling, the state's high court said that the Philadelphia School District and the SRC were within their legal rights to cap enrollment at Walter D. Palmer Leadership Learning Partners Charter School based on a mutually signed agreement. In 2005, Palmer agreed to abide by a cap of 675 students, but a Commonwealth Court later ruled Palmer should be paid $1.3 million from the district for students in excess of the cap. In its 2005 charter-renewal application, the Palmer school asked to increase ts cap. The SRC denied its request, citing poor academic performance on state standardized tests.

http://www.newsworks.org/index.php/homepage-feature/item/68482-walter-palmer-calls-supreme-court-decision-against-his-charter-political?linktype=hp_impact

PA Budget plan leaves no money for school construction

Tribune Review By Megan Harris Published: Tuesday, May 27, 2014, 10:00 p.m.
Cash-strapped schools desperate to replace leaky roofs and crumbling infrastructure likely will go without state construction money for a third year, school business officials say, since Gov. Tom Corbett's budget proposal continues a moratorium on funding new projects. In 2012, Corbett cut funding to new applications, stalling 354 projects in varying stages of construction or capital planning. At least 200 since have been financed — some even finished — with the expectation of state money that didn't come. The state Department of Education has estimated it would need at least $1.6 billion to reimburse them all.

"These school districts played by the rules and entered the PlanCon process with no knowledge of the impending backlog and no indication that reimbursement would be delayed in any way. They have significant financial obligations and do not have the liberty of simply delaying payment until state reimbursement is received."

PlanCon Background and School District Impact

PASBO January 16, 2014

PlanCon is a lengthy process of approvals required by the Department of Education (PDE) for schools to receive reimbursement for new construction projects or for renovations of existing buildings. The PlanCon process and the reimbursement to schools for a portion of the cost has been established in the School Code and State Board of Education regulations for decades.

The PlanCon approval process consists of 11 steps, covering everything from preliminary planning and facility design and to project financing and refinancing. Once the extensive series of preliminary planning steps have been completed and approved by PDE, debt is put into place, schools seek bids, begin construction, and then apply for partial reimbursement for a percentage of their project costs. Wealthier districts receive a very small share (usually under 10% of the total project cost) while lower wealth districts can receive a larger state share of the project costs.

http://archive.pasbo.org/PlanCon%20handout.pdf

A growing push to abolish the SRC

Citypaper By Daniel Denvir Published: 05/28/2014

Pennsylvania Working Families plans to deliver 40,000 petition signatures this morning to Philadelphia City Council asking them to place a question on November's ballot demanding that the state abolish the School Reform Commission. The measure would add a section to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter charging that "the state's takeover of our schools through the School Reform Commission has weakened the voices of parents and community" and "call[ing] upon the Pennsylvania General Assembly and the Governor to abolish the School Reform Commission and return local control of Philadelphia's schools." City Council can propose a Charter amendment to appear on the ballot by a two-thirds vote, or by only a majority if a petition signed by at least 20,000 registered voters is submitted—but still only if Council chooses to do so.

http://citypaper.net/article.php?A-growing-push-to-abolish-the-SRC-20421

School activists: Get rid of the SRC

The Inquirer by Claudia Vargas @InqCVargas POSTED: WEDNESDAY, MAY 28, 2014, 2:34 PM

A group of school activists went to City Hall today with 40,000 signatures on a petition calling for city and state support in abolishing the School Reform Commission. The lead petitioners, who include members of the Pennsylvania Working Families, teachers and parents, want the city to get control back of its schools. The way to do that, they believe, is by asking for a City Charter amendment that would ask the Pennsylvania General Assembly and the Governor to get rid of the SRC.

http://www.philly.com/philly/blogs/heardinthehall/School-activists-Get-rid-of-the-SRC.html#rcVWshojq80blLfb.99

Debate Continues Over Holocaust Education

Jewish Exponent MAY 28, 2014 By: Eric Berger

Holocaust education advocates are again grappling with the best course of action in pushing for legislation that would increase the number of students studying the subject in Pennsylvania.

There still appears to be a divide over whether passing a bill that does not require students to learn about the Holocaust can be considered a success and, conversely, whether a bill that does include a mandate has any chance of passing in the Republican-controlled legislature.

http://www.jewishexponent.com/lifestyle/2014/05/debate-continues-over-holocaust-education

Breaking News: Florida League of Women Voters Releases Bombshell Charter Study

Diane Ravitch's Blog By dianeravitch May 28, 2014 //

The Florida League of Women Voters just released a bombshell study of charters across the state. The study shows that charter schools do not perform better than public schools; that charters are more segregated than public schools; that many charters funnel money to religious organizations; that a significant number of charters operate for profit; and that the charter industry has captured control of key seats in the legislature. Here is the press release. Open the links and read the study. At the end of the press release is a list of state legislators identified by the LWV with “Conflict of Interest Concerns.”

http://dianeravitch.net/2014/05/28/breaking-news-florida-league-of-women-voters-releases-bombshell-charter-study/

NSBA urges U.S. House members to oppose school voucher bill

NSBA School Board News Today by Alexis Rice May 28, 2014

The National School Boards Association (NSBA) Executive Director Thomas J. Gentzel sent a letter today to members of the U.S. House of Representatives urging them not to support the CHOICE Act as it would provide federal resources for voucher schemes and fund private schools that are not fully accountable to the same laws and civil rights that govern public schools.

Representatives Todd Rokita (R-Ind.) and Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Wash.) are expected to introduce the CHOICE ACT on Thursday, May 29, 2014. The bill would provide vouchers to students educated under Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), students who reside in military installations, and students enrolled or waiting for vouchers through the DC Opportunity Scholarship program.

http://schoolboardnews.nsba.org/2014/05/school-voucher-bill/

NSBA calls for research, not mandates, to help public schools serve ELLs

NSBA School Board News Today by Joetta Sack-Min May 28, 2014

The National School Boards Association’s (NSBA) Executive Director Thomas J. Gentzel participated in a National Roundtable on English Language Learners at the U.S. Department of Education this week, where he discussed the needs of students whose primary language is not English. Gentzel emphasized the need for the federal government to focus on providing technical assistance and disseminating best practices rather than imposing new mandates on school districts. “Changing demographics are affecting school districts of all sizes in every part of the country,” Gentzel said after the discussion, which included representatives of nearly a dozen national and statewide organizations, Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, and several other officials from the Department of Education.

http://schoolboardnews.nsba.org/2014/05/nsba-calls-for-research-not-mandates-to-help-public-schools-serve-ells/

The Country’s Cultural Capital Has a Big Arts-Education Problem

A new report found that many New York City schools in low-income areas don't have teachers for creative fields like dance, music, painting, or sculpture.

The Atlantic by JACOBA URISTMAY 28 2014, 12:52 PM ET

With its art fairs, first-class museums, a multi-billion-dollar theater industry, and the world’s largest performing arts center, New York City’s commitment to the arts seems absolute. But when it comes to providing access to arts education in public schools, the city's comptroller has given New York a failing grade. In April, the office released its first-ever State of the Arts report, finding a big difference between the level of arts education in wealthier and lower-income schools. This has raised fresh questions about how art enhances learning and whether children will be better prepared for a 21st century economy if they have mastered the “soft” skills that art teaches. In an increasingly “creative” economy, the argument goes, students need original thinking to thrive—and then only wealthy New Yorkers are being set up to succeed.

http://www.theatlantic.com/education/archive/2014/05/the-countrys-cultural-capital-has-a-big-arts-education-problem/371658/

"What if Booker had objectively reported the results of Newark's high-performing charters, such as North Star Academy, a member of the Uncommon Schools network? North Star was driven by data and non-unionized teachers who could "teach like champions!" The result was proficiency rates as high as 100% and graduation rates of 100%. What if he then shared the research of Rutgers' Bruce Baker? Baker showed that in comparison to Newark schools North Star served 14% fewer students with family incomes low enough for free lunch. It served 36% fewer students with learning disabilities. The charter served no students with emotional disabilities, traumatic brain injuries, or multiple impairments. North Star was tied with another charter school for the city's second highest suspension rate. That was only one reason why the attrition rate for black boys between 5^th and 12^th grade was 60%."

John Thompson: What Will Zuckerberg Learn From Newark?

Education Week Living in Dialogue Blog By Anthony Cody on May 28, 2014 9:47 AM

Guest post by John Thompson.

Dale Russakoff's New Yorker profile "Schooled" is a wonderful account of Mark Zuckerberg's $100 million investment in Newark school reform, and how and why it failed. Perhaps the best new revelation in "Schooled" starts with the lesson Russakoff learned from a wealthy donor. "Investors bet on people, not on business plans, because they know successful people will find a way to be successful." And, sure enough, when Facebook's founder announced his plan to transform Newark schools, "One Newark," he explained that he was persuaded by then-mayor Cory Booker, "This is the guy I want to invest in. This is a person who can create change." Booker created a confidential draft plan to "make Newark the charter school capital of the nation." Because it would be driven by philanthropic donors, no openness would be required. "Real change requires casualties," Booker argued, and stealth was required to defeat "the pre-existing order," which will "fight loudly and viciously." This raises the question of what would have happened if Booker had done all of "the right things," and been transparent, instead of caricaturing teachers and unions. What if Booker had provided Zuckerberg with a fair and balanced analysis of school improvement issues?

http://blogs.edweek.org/teachers/living-in-dialogue/2014/05/john_thompson_what_will_zucker.html

Finns beat U.S. with low-tech take on school

Politico By CAITLIN EMMA | 5/27/14 11:39 PM EDT

HELSINKI — At the start of morning assembly in the state-of-the-art Viikki School here, students’ smartphones disappear. In math class, the teacher shuts off the Smartboard and begins drafting perfect circles on a chalkboard. The students — some of the highest-achieving in the world — cut up graphing paper while solving equations using their clunky plastic calculators. Finnish students and teachers didn’t need laptops and iPads to get to the top of international education rankings, said Krista Kiuru, minister of education and science at the Finnish Parliament. And officials say they aren’t interested in using them to stay there. That’s in stark contrast to what reformers in the U.S. say. From President Barack Obama on down, they have called education technology critical to improving schools. By shifting around $2 billion in existing funds and soliciting $2 billion in contributions from private companies, the Obama administration is pressing to expand schools’ access to broadband and the devices that thrive on it.

“How Public School Funding Works in Pennsylvania—Or Doesn’t: What You Need to Know” When: Friday, May 30, 2014, 9 am to 12 pm Where: Marriott Hotel in Conshohocken, PA
Session I: "Funding Schools: What Pennsylvania Can Learn from Other States"
Key Pennsylvania legislators and public officials will respond to a presentation by Professor Robert C. Knoeppel of Clemson University, an expert on emerging trends and ideas in public school finance.

Introduction: Representative Steve Santarsiero
Moderator: Rob Wonderling, President and CEO, Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce
Panel:
Charles Zogby, Secretary of the Budget, Commonwealth of PA, Senator Patrick Browne, Senator Anthony Williams, Representative Bernie O'Neill, Representative James Roebuck
Session II: "Why Smart Investments in Public Schools Are Critical to Pennsylvania's Economic Future"

A discussion with a panel of CEOs who are major employers in the region.
Introduction: Rob Loughery, Chair, Bucks County Commissioners
Panel (confirmed to date):
Michael Pearson, President and CEO, Union Packaging, Philip Rinaldi, CEO, Philadelphia Energy Solutions, Bryan Hancock, Principal, McKinsey & Company, and author: "The Economic Impact of the Achievement Gap in America's Schools"
You can register for this free event here:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/how-public-school-funding-works-in-pennsylvania-or-doesnt-what-you-need-to-know-tickets-11527064761?ref=ebtnebregn

2014 CONFERENCE ON THE STATE OF EDUCATION IN PENNSYLVANIA

60 YEARS AFTER BROWN HOW ARE THE CHILDREN? WHAT ARE THE ISSUES?

Saturday, May 31, 2014 - 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (8:30 Registration)

MARCUS FOSTER STUDENT UNION 2^ND FLR. CHEYNEY UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA, DE Co. Campus

Keynote Speaker: Dan Hardy – Retired Reporter -Philadelphia Inquirer

Distressed Schools: How Did it Come to This?

PANELS:

The State of Education in Pennsylvania 60 Years after Brown
Keystones and Graduation: Cut the Connection
How Harrisburg Cut District Funding, Poured on the Keystones, and Connected them to Graduation
Financing Our Schools: What Does it Cost to Educate a Child in 2014 and How Should We Fund It?
Effective Advocacy – How to be Heard in Harrisburg - And - What We Need to be Saying

For more info and registration: http://www.naacpmediabranch.org/#

Apply Now! EPLC’s 2014-2015 Education Policy Fellowship Program

Education Policy and Leadership Center

Click here to read more about EPLC’s Education Policy Fellowship Program, including: 2014-15 Schedule 2014-15 Application Past Speakers Program Alumni And More Information

PCCY invites you to get on the School Spirit Bus to Harrisburg on Tuesday June 10th for Fair and Full School Funding!

Public Citizens for Children and Youth

Pennsylvania Education Summit Wednesday, June 11, 2014 from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM (EDT) Camp Hill, PA

PA Business-Education Partnership

Featuring:

Welcome By Governor Tom Corbett (invited)

Remarks Acting Secretary of Education Carolyn Dumaresq (confirmed)

Perceptions & comments of business leaders, educators, college presidents, and advocacy groups

Full agenda here: http://www.bipac.net/pbc/2014-PA-Education-Summit-Agenda.pdf

Registration: http://www.eventbrite.com/e/pennsylvania-education-summit-tickets-11529363637?aff=eorgf

2014 PA Gubernatorial Candidate Plans for Education and Arts/Culture in PA

Education Policy and Leadership Center

http://www.eplc.org/2014-gubernatorial-candidate-plans-for-education-and-artsculture-in-pa/

Pages

Friday, May 30, 2014

PA Ed Policy Roundup May 30: Here's a school choice: markets do not ensure equity, social justice, civic engagement, and opportunity for all.

Thursday, May 29, 2014

PA Ed Policy Roundup May 29: Keystone Exams: Pa. bill would end plans for mandatory graduation tests