Washington, D.C.—Today, America First Works announced its support for Pennsylvania’s H.B. 2169—a Lifeline Scholarship Program sponsored by Representatives Clint Owlett and Martina White. This legislation provides an opportunity for children who are in the bottom 15% performing school districts in Pennsylvania.
Since the COVID-19 school closures began, education success has suffered. Student test scores in Pennsylvania as measured by the standardized tests fell sharply last year in all subject areas. English scores dropped 3.5% for fourth graders and 7% for eighth grade students. Math scores for fourth graders fell by 7 percent and eighth graders to 11%. Science scores were down 2% to 7% for fourth and eighth grade students respectively. According to the National Bureau of Economic Research, minority students have suffered the greatest.
“A Lifeline Scholarship—and education opportunity—will improve student success and long-term outcomes. It ensures taxpayer dollars have a more direct impact on students and their success,” said Ashley Hayek, Executive Director of America First Works. “By supporting H.B. 2169, Pennsylvania legislators can demonstrate their commitment to the education freedom movement and help provide their constituents with the American dream of equal access to quality education. If passed, this will allow students to have the chance to achieve greater success, which benefits both the child and communities.”
Students who reside within the attendance area of a low-achieving school would be eligible for a Lifeline Scholarship Account, including but not limiting to a child in foster care or a child who has a parent or legal guardian on full-time active-duty status in the armed forces of the United States. Some examples of what the account funds must be used for include tuition, fees and uniforms, fees for tutoring, fees for special instruction or therapies for students with a disability, and costs associated with evaluation and identification of special needs.
Read more about Pennsylvania H.B. 2169 HERE.
Read more about the benefits of school choice policies HERE.