Rep. Martina White of Philadelphia and U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon called on April 10 for Pennsylvania’s governor to participate in a new federal tax credit program aimed at expanding educational opportunities for K-12 students.
The proposed program would allow tax filers in Pennsylvania to receive a federal tax credit of up to $1,700 when they donate to approved scholarship organizations that help cover education costs such as tuition, tutoring, and school supplies. Supporters say the initiative could increase options for families seeking alternatives to traditional public schools.
White said, “Secretary McMahon recognizes the importance of growing our state’s already robust options for families seeking the best educational opportunities for their children.” She also stated, “We’ve really set the standard for the Educational Improvement Tax Credit and Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit programs, so it should be a no-brainer for us to take advantage of this federal tax credit developed, in large part, courtesy of our own Sen. Dave McCormick.”
At a press conference, McMahon emphasized that giving families more choices allows them to address concerns about class size, test scores, security, curriculum and learning styles. More than 250,000 students in Pennsylvania already attend schools outside traditional public systems because their parents sought different options.
“For parents, school choice is not about politics. It is about finding a learning environment where their child can succeed,” White said.
Advocates hope Governor Josh Shapiro will opt into the program as 27 other governors have reportedly done. They believe participation could further expand educational opportunities across Pennsylvania.
