Keystone Ledger

Education

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

Lawmakers Return to Debate Over School Funding Formula Overhaul

Lawmakers Return to Debate Over School Funding Formula Overhaul

A renewed push to revise how the state distributes basic education funding has reopened long-standing disagreements between wealthier and poorer districts.

Adult Education Centers See Rising Demand for GED Preparation Classes

Adult Education Centers See Rising Demand for GED Preparation Classes

Enrollment in adult basic education programs has grown for three straight years, driven partly by immigrants seeking credential recognition for better jobs.

School District's Rooftop Solar Project Cuts Energy Costs, Funds New Positions

School District's Rooftop Solar Project Cuts Energy Costs, Funds New Positions

Savings from a district-wide solar installation are funding two additional counselor positions, offering a rare example of infrastructure spending translating directly into staffing.

Community College Partners With Manufacturers on Direct-Hire Training Pipeline

Community College Partners With Manufacturers on Direct-Hire Training Pipeline

A new certificate program guarantees graduates a job interview with one of six partner manufacturers, addressing a persistent skilled-trades gap.

Charter School Expansion Plan Draws Pushback From Suburban District

Charter School Expansion Plan Draws Pushback From Suburban District

A proposed new charter school campus has ignited a familiar debate over funding formulas and declining enrollment at the district school it would draw from.

Two Luzerne County School Districts Move Toward Formal Merger

Two Luzerne County School Districts Move Toward Formal Merger

Declining enrollment and rising per-student costs are pushing two neighboring districts to consider a consolidation vote after years of informal cost-sharing.

State Grants Fund Security Upgrades at Dozens of Small District Schools

State Grants Fund Security Upgrades at Dozens of Small District Schools

A competitive state grant program is helping smaller districts afford entry-vestibule renovations and updated camera systems they couldn't budget for alone.

State University System Extends Tuition Freeze for Third Straight Year

State University System Extends Tuition Freeze for Third Straight Year

System officials say the freeze is helping stabilize enrollment, though several campus presidents warn deferred maintenance costs are piling up.

Small Grants Help Elementary Teachers Rebuild Classroom Book Collections

Small Grants Help Elementary Teachers Rebuild Classroom Book Collections

A statewide nonprofit's micro-grant program is helping teachers replace outdated or worn classroom libraries, often funded previously out of their own pockets.