Education

Schools, universities, and the policies shaping how Pennsylvania learns.

Local Nonprofit Wipes Out School Lunch Debt for Three Pennsylvania Districts

A community fund paid off more than $180,000 in unpaid school meal balances, but district officials say the relief only papers over a funding gap that keeps growing.

Rural Districts Still Fighting Broadband Gaps Years After Remote Learning Ended

Even as classrooms have long since returned to in-person instruction, spotty home internet access continues to limit homework completion in rural counties.

University Expands Campus Safety Escort Program After Student Petition

Following a student-led petition citing inadequate evening lighting and long waits for security escorts, the university tripled its walking escort staff.

Lancaster Career and Technical Center Adds Second Shift to Meet Demand

Waitlists for welding, HVAC, and automotive technology programs pushed the regional CTE center to add evening classes for the first time.

Rural Elk County District Struggles to Fill Science Teacher Vacancy for Second Year

A persistent shortage of certified science teachers willing to relocate to rural districts has left one school relying on long-term substitutes.

University Breaks Ground on New Athletics Complex Funded by Alumni Gift

A $30 million donor gift is funding a new training facility, part of a broader push to keep the athletics program competitive within its conference.

Dual Enrollment Participation Doubles at Erie-Area High Schools

More students are graduating high school with college credit already earned, a trend driven by expanded partnerships between districts and local colleges.

Districts Overhaul Reading Instruction After Years of Weak Literacy Scores

Several districts are replacing long-used reading curricula with phonics-based instruction aligned to what researchers call the science of reading.

Pittsburgh University Lab Wins Major Federal Grant for Materials Research

A $12 million award will fund research into next-generation battery materials, continuing the region's push to rebuild around advanced manufacturing.