Changes are coming....

Changes are coming….

As always, the holidays are the harbinger of change as we resolve to enter the New Year with improved energy and commitment. This year, with the induction of a new governor, many educators also anticipate myriad changes to the state’s public education system. On November 2nd Pennsylvania voters elected Republican Tom Corbett as the next Governor. He and legislative leaders have stated that they will address the budget shortfall early in the new session. Corbett has indicated throughout his campaign that his priority as Governor is to cut spending without raising taxes or fees.

Corbett acknowledges on his website that there has been growth in student achievement over the past eight years in PA; he also contends that this growth remains inadequate. In order to provide “a great school for every child,” the Corbett vision focuses on five general components:
• Funding schools and students: getting funding into the classroom
• Enhancing educational opportunities: enhancing charter school quality and accountability
• Ensuring effective teachers and leaders: new evaluations and merit pay
• Embracing accountability for results: closing failing schools and developing a school grading system
• Creating a safe learning environment: strengthening cooperation between schools and law enforcement

Corbett has also stated that one of his first priorities will be the development of a school choice program. This plan is reminiscent of the “tuition vouchers for school choice” debate of the 1990s in which the state would subsidize tuition payments when families sent their children to private schools. With Republicans gaining control in the Pennsylvania House, Corbett will have a greater opportunity to act upon his vision for Pennsylvania education.

Central Cambria, like many districts, has embraced fiscal and academic accountability; we welcome policies whose aim is the wellbeing of all children. We do more with less as the Pennsylvania Department of Education adds monitoring, documentation and performance requirements without providing funds to accomplish such tasks. In the face of these challenges, Central Cambria School District continues to make great strides in student achievement while providing a positive educational experience for all students and balancing the needs and financial limitations of its community. As Corbett begins his tenure as governor, it is vital that we remain committed to, and vocal about, the priorities and needs of our children and public education.

I wish everyone in the Central Cambria family a safe, relaxing, and joyous holiday season. In my world, such joy involves family, food, and football. But whatever your definition of happiness, my wish is that you experience it bountifully this season. Have a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Dr. D