Happy Independence Day!
As we head into the Independence Day weekend, all of us at the Keystone Teachers Association wish you and your family a safe, relaxing, and enjoyable holiday. This year is especially significant as America celebrates the 250th anniversary of our nation’s independence. We hope you have the opportunity to spend time with family and friends, enjoy your community’s celebrations, and take advantage of a well-deserved summer break. Happy Fourth of July!
In this Issue:
- Protecting Educators Injured on the Job
- Paid Family and Medical Leave
- U.S. Flag Display in Classrooms
- State Budget Update
- School District Adopts Drug and Alcohol Testing for Student Athletes
Pennsylvania Legislative Update
Although the General Assembly has not yet completed its work on the 2026-27 state budget, several pieces of legislation affecting educators moved forward during June.
Protecting Educators Injured on the Job
House Bill 1919 would provide greater financial protection for school employees who are injured as a result of student violence. Rather than requiring educators to first exhaust their accumulated sick leave, the bill would allow eligible employees to continue receiving their regular salary and benefits while recovering from a work-related assault or injury. The legislation was approved by the House Education Committee and now awaits consideration by the full House.
Paid Family and Medical Leave
Senate Bill 906 would create Pennsylvania’s first statewide Paid Family and Medical Leave program. If enacted, eligible teachers and school employees could receive partial wage replacement while taking leave following the birth or adoption of a child, caring for a seriously ill family member, recovering from their own serious health condition, or for certain military-related family needs. While many school districts already provide leave benefits through collective bargaining agreements or employer policies, this legislation could establish a statewide benefit that would work alongside existing leave programs. The bill continues to move through the Senate for further consideration.
U.S. Flag Display in Classrooms
Senate Bill 835 unanimously passed the Senate and is now before the House Education Committee. The bill would require every public school classroom to display the United States flag and would update requirements regarding instruction in patriotism and civic responsibility.
State Budget Update
As of June 30, lawmakers have not reached a final agreement on Pennsylvania’s 2026-27 state budget. Negotiations continue on funding for public education, special education, school safety, career and technical education, and educator workforce initiatives. KEYTA will continue monitoring the budget process and provide updates as decisions are made that impact Pennsylvania educators.
Around Pennsylvania
Aliquippa School District Adopts Drug and Alcohol Testing for Student Athletes
The Aliquippa School District recently became the latest school district in western Pennsylvania to approve random drug and alcohol testing for student athletes. District officials say the goal is to deter substance abuse, encourage students to seek help before problems worsen, and promote student health and safety. While the policy applies only to students participating in athletics, not school employees, it reflects a growing trend among some Pennsylvania districts to expand substance abuse prevention efforts through extracurricular participation requirements.
