HARRISBURG — Following yesterday’s vote in the Pennsylvania House to advance Gov. Josh Shapiro’s FY 2026–27 budget proposal, PA Schools Work issued the following statement:
“The April 14 House vote to pass Governor Shapiro’s proposed FY 2026-27 state budget (HB 2400) moves Pennsylvania closer to an on-time state budget and keeps the Commonwealth on the path to fulfilling its constitutional obligation to provide every student a thorough and efficient public education —
regardless of zip code.
“The budget bill the House advanced with support from both parties includes meaningful, targeted investments in public education, including nearly $700 million more in key funding for schools. Specifically, it includes $565 million in adequacy and tax equity payments, $50 million more through the Basic Education Funding formula, and $50 million more for special education — alongside support for career and technical education, student-teacher stipends, and the continuation of programs like universal school breakfast. Also important, expanding on last year’s critical cyber charter reforms, Governor Shapiro’s proposal includes additional savings for school districts, bringing the total annual savings from these reforms to $250 million.
“Pennsylvania has begun to see what adequacy funding makes possible: smaller class sizes, stronger math and literacy supports, and expanded STEM and other program opportunities. Students and communities are counting on state leaders to keep that progress moving.
“We also know there will be major negotiations ahead. But as legislators debate the numbers and the path forward, our message is simple: adequacy funding that continues to close the school funding gap is not optional. They are a constitutional requirement, a promise that lawmakers have already made, and a
moral commitment to Pennsylvania’s kids.
“PA Schools Work urges House and Senate leaders and the Governor to come together, finalize a bipartisan budget on time, and make sustained, multi-year progress toward full constitutional compliance. Our coalition stands ready to work with lawmakers of both parties to ensure every public school has the
resources students need to succeed.”
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