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Despite the significant role that state government plays in determining the quality of our public schools, few citizens have a clear picture of its specific responsibilities. To advocate effectively for public education, we must have an understanding of the roles of various stakeholders – state lawmakers, school boards, teachers, administrators, parents, citizens, and students. The materials in this section are designed to help you be an effective advocate for Pennsylvania's children, both in your own community and in state policy debates.
Pennsylvania's Costing-Out Study
On November 14, 2007, Pennsylvanians learned just what it takes to ensure all students a high quality public education, as the State Board of Education released the results of Pennsylvania's first statewide costing-out study. More >
Study and Action Guides
Our 7-unit Study and Action Guide is designed to inform you about quality and inequality, what quality requires, and how inequality shortchanges children. Topics include school funding 101, the job of public education, where money matters, the impact of inequity, the legislature and the courts, and accountability for results. More >
Fact Sheets
In this section you will find additional (and frequently briefer) resources documenting Pennsylvania's inequitable funding and educational resource system. Materials include key education facts, a timeline of public education in Pennsylvania, and frequently asked questions. More >
Legislative Information
Providing a public education to meet the needs of the Commonwealth is one of the most significant roles spelled out for the legislature in our state constitution, and should be a priority for all of our representatives in Harrisburg. Visit this section to discover where your legislator stands on education, and to learn about current legislative initiatives or policies that may impact the access of all Pennsylvania children to a great education.
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School District Data
Instead of a sound school funding formula, Pennsylvania has 501 school districts that vary enormously in terms of available resources, student demographics and achievement. Download this document to find out about your school district, including: the spending level per pupil, property tax rate, percentage of low-income students, number of Limited English Proficiency students, percentage of students scoring below proficient on the state standardized test, and legislative representatives. (Data is organized by county.) More >
Act 48 Continuing Education Hours
Good Schools Pennsylvania appluads educators and administrators for the work they do to educate the Commonwealth's students. Now we can return the favor! If you are a superintendent, teacher, principal or guidance counselor and you are interested in instilling advocacy skills in your students, Good Schools Pennsylvania can help you earn Act 48 credit hours. More >
Reports & Publications
Visit this section if you are ready to learn more about public education. More >
Organizations & Links
Visit this section to find other education advocacy organizations and government websites that provide current information and helpful resources. More >