Governor Announces Proposed 2009-2010 State Budget

2/9/2009 3:00:00 PM

Last week Governor Ed Rendell presented his 2009-2010 state budget proposal, which earmarked an inc…

Last week Governor Ed Rendell presented his 2009-2010 state budget proposal, which earmarked an increase of $300 million for basic education subsidies. Pennsylvania’s current economic situation made it difficult for Rendell to reach the funding targets outlined in Act 61 of 2008, which calls for at least $430 million in new education funds in this year’s budget to keep Pennsylvania on track of meeting the needs of all students by 2014. This goal was established to eliminate resource gaps and ensure that each student has an equal opportunity for academic success. His proposal also included $8.6 million to give teachers tools to identify and assist struggling students, as well as $9.8 million to create high quality standard final exams. 

However, while addressing budget shortfalls that Pennsylvania is experiencing, Rendell was forced to cut programs aimed at boosting science and math education, in addition to job training programs. Funding for the Classrooms for the Future technology iniative was also reduced to $22 million, a 51% decrease from 2008-09. Funding for programs such as the Governor’s Schools of Excellence and the Scranton School for the Deaf were eliminated.