Below is a summary of recent state and national education developments that may impact Pennsylvania educators. We will continue to monitor these issues and provide updates as needed.
In this edition:
- PA Senate Passes School Phone Ban Bill
- Mental Health Days for Students
- Cursive Writing Returns to Schools
- Governor’s Proposed 2026–27 Education Budget
- New Federal Guidance on Prayer in Schools
- Teen Use of AI for Schoolwork Increasing
- KEYTA Spirit Wear Sale
In state news:
PA Senate Passes School Phone Ban Bill
The Pennsylvania Senate has passed legislation that would require a universal “bell-to-bell” cell phone ban in public and private schools across the commonwealth. The bill now heads to the House of Representatives. Governor Josh Shapiro has endorsed the proposal as one of his education priorities, and supporters say the measure is intended to reduce classroom distractions and improve student focus.
Mental Health Days for Students
The House Education Committee approved HB 1648, which would amend the Public School Code to allow students to take excused absences for “mental health days.” The bill requires school boards to adopt policies recognizing excused absences for student mental or physical fatigue. The legislation now advances for further consideration in the legislative process.
Cursive Writing Returns to Schools
A bill requiring cursive handwriting instruction in Pennsylvania schools was signed into law by Governor Josh Shapiro on February 11, 2026 and will take effect April 12, 2026. The law adds cursive (along with joined italics and printing) to the list of required subjects in the Public School Code, marking the official return of cursive instruction to Pennsylvania classrooms.
Governor’s Proposed 2026–27 Education Budget
Governor Josh Shapiro’s proposed 2026–27 budget includes increased investments in Basic Education Funding, Special Education, and the Ready to Learn Block Grant to support underfunded districts and classroom resources. This proposal marks the beginning of the state budget process and must move through the General Assembly, where lawmakers may revise funding levels and priorities before a final budget is enacted.
In National News:
New Federal Guidance on Prayer in Schools
The U.S. Department of Education has issued new guidance stating that public school teachers and staff may participate in visible prayer with students during the school day, such as saying grace before lunch. The guidance reverses a 2023 memo that discouraged school employees from encouraging or discouraging prayer and represents a shift in federal policy regarding religious expression in public schools.
Teen Use of AI for Schoolwork Increasing
A recent Pew Research Center survey reports that 54% of U.S. teens use AI chatbots to assist with schoolwork, and 59% believe AI-assisted cheating occurs regularly at their school. More than one-quarter of students describe AI tools as “extremely helpful.” The findings highlight growing classroom considerations around academic integrity, instructional practices, and technology policies.
