In Philadelphia, Governor Shapiro, Mayor Parker, Secretary Rowe, Legislators, Educators, and Students Celebrate Historic Investments in Education Secured in 2026-27 Budget

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July 14, 2026 - Philadelphia, PA

In Philadelphia, Governor Shapiro, Mayor Parker, Secretary Rowe, Legislators, Educators, and Students Celebrate Historic Investments in Education Secured in 2026-27 Budget

Governor Josh Shapiro, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker, Pennsylvania Department of Education Secretary Dr. Carrie Rowe, teachers, students, and local elected leaders visited Vare-Washington Elementary School in Philadelphia to highlight how the 2026-27 budget signed by the Governor is delivering $678 million in additional funding for Pennsylvania students - building on three years of historic progress to give every student the freedom to chart their own course and the opportunity to succeed.

This year's budget continues the Shapiro Administration's work to ensure every student, in every community, has access to a high-quality public education. Under Governor Shapiro's leadership, Pennsylvania has increased funding for our schools by more than $3 billion - or 35 percent - since the Governor took office, for a total of $11.85 billion invested into Pennsylvania's students this year.

"Even with a divided legislature, we've proven time and again that Democrats and Republicans can come together to get stuff done for the good people of Pennsylvania," said Governor Shapiro. "I believe creating opportunity starts in our classrooms and from day one, my Administration has been focused on delivering real resources for students, parents, and teachers. Together, we've increased funding for Pennsylvania schools by 35 percent since I took office, leading to higher test scores, rising graduation rates, improved attendance, expanded access to vo-tech and CTE, more teachers in our classrooms. These investments are making a real difference and we're going to keep building on it to ensure every Pennsylvania student has the opportunity to succeed."

Speakers in Order:
Dr. Tony B. Watlington Sr. - Superintendent, School District of Philadelphia
Governor Josh Shapiro
Kathleen Kramer - 6th Teacher, Vare-Washington Elementary School
Carrie Rowe - Secretary PA Department of Education
Mayor Cherelle Parker - City of Philadelphia
Speaker Joanna McClinton, PA's 191st House District
Senator Vincent Hughes - PA's 7th District
Rep. Jordan Harris - PA's 186th House District
Rep. Ben Waxman - PA's 182nd House District

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