The Pennsylvania School Boards Association (PSBA) appreciates several positive elements in Governor Shapiro’s proposed 2026‑27 budget, particularly where it continues prior commitments to education funding and student supports. However, PSBA believes that the proposal could be enhanced to provide comprehensive, statewide investments Pennsylvania’s public schools urgently need.
“We appreciate the governor’s continued commitment to several important education initiatives,” said Nathan Mains, PSBA CEO. “To fully meet the needs of students across Pennsylvania, PSBA urges the General Assembly and the administration to build on this proposal by strengthening Basic and Special Education funding so every school district has the resources necessary to educate students and protect taxpayers.”
PSBA is pleased that the budget proposal continues the commitment made to the 348 school districts that rely on adequacy funding for supplemental state revenue to invest in their classrooms. However, we are hopeful that the final budget provides significant additional investments to Basic and Special Education funding that all school districts vitally need and rely on to help offset potential increases to local taxpayers.
PSBA strongly supports the continued $111 million investment in school safety and student mental health. These investments are critical and align with PSBA’s long‑standing advocacy for safe and secure schools, including through the Pennsylvania School Safety Institute (PennSSI).
The association also supports the proposed $125 million to address structural and environmental needs in school facilities, including $25 million for the Solar for Schools program. While any school infrastructure funding is important, it must be considered in context: In the 2025 State of Education report, 77% of school districts reported having at least one school building in need of major repair or replacement, highlighting the magnitude of unmet need statewide.
PSBA welcomes the additional $5 million for student teacher stipends, bringing annual funding to $35 million. Strengthening the educator pipeline is essential, as districts continue to face severe staffing shortages.
PSBA also supports the administration’s continued emphasis on workforce development, including increased investments in apprenticeships, career and technical education, and vocational‑technical programs that prepare students for high‑demand careers.
Although today’s proposal only marks the start of the state’s budget process, PSBA looks forward to working with the administration and legislative leaders to produce an on-time budget that meets the needs of our public schools and the students they serve.
