Lansdowne, PA – June 26, 2024

Dear William Penn School District Community,

As we approach the start of our new fiscal year on July 1st, we find ourselves in a challenging situation due to the Pennsylvania State Senate’s delay in approving the state budget. This delay is causing significant uncertainty and frustration as we prepare for the upcoming school year, which begins on September 4, 2024.

In light of the state’s inaction, we must take decisive steps to ensure the continued operation and quality of our schools as well as maintain our district’s financial stability. The WPSD school board of directors is holding a special board meeting tomorrow, Thursday, June 27 at 6:30 p.m. on Zoom. All are invited to attend.

The WPSD Budget Committee has been discussing various scenarios as we have been awaiting the state’s decision. It is now time to take action. The board will be voting on the 2024-2025 district budget during this very important meeting. Because of the state’s delays and in order to continue operations, we are looking to implement a 3% tax increase.

Although we have been extremely hopeful due to the Commonwealth Supreme Court’s decision declaring school funding in Pennsylvania as unconstitutional and by the proposal by the Basic Education Funding Commission and Governor Shapiro’s proposed budget, we are in a precarious and unfair limbo.

We are forced to make difficult decisions. Even with the tax increase, we will have to exclude many important staffing and other needs including Special Education Instructional Assistants (IAs), English Language Learner (ELL) teachers, Regular Education Teacher, additional School Security Officers, contracted security for the Rap Curry Athletic Complex Kerr Field, our school buildings, and after-school events and activities. This will also delay the progress we are making on our Facilities Master Plan. We are also looking at cuts to our Safe Corridors program as well as reducing the number of staff members and teachers.

These decisions have been made with careful consideration of our district’s needs and the resources available. We understand that these measures are not without impact, and we share the frustration of having to make these tough choices. However, we believe these steps are necessary to ensure that our students receive the quality education they deserve.

We appreciate your understanding and continued support as we navigate these challenging and uncertain times. Should there be any updates regarding the state budget, we will keep you informed and adjust our plans accordingly.

Thank you for your commitment to our students and our district.

Sincerely,

Dr. Becoats