PHILADELPHIA, PA – A bill aimed at helping low-income students in Pennsylvania’s worst-performing schools passed the state Senate last week.
Senate Bill 757 introduces the Pennsylvania Award for Student Success (PASS) Program, which will provide scholarships of up to $15,000 for eligible students from kindergarten to 12th grade. Sen. Judy Ward (R-30), the sponsor of the bill, stated that the program serves as a lifeline for students and families who can’t afford better educational opportunities.
The scholarships will be tiered based on educational level: $2,500 for half-day kindergarten students, $5,000 for kindergarten through 8th grade, $10,000 for 9th through 12th grade, and $15,000 for students with special needs. To qualify, families must have an income below 250% of the federal poverty level, currently $75,000 for a family of four.
The legislation could benefit students in 382 schools across 79 districts. Sen. Ward urged Gov. Josh Shapiro and the state House to prioritize students over special interests and approve the program.
In June, the Senate approved a state budget that included $100 million for the PASS Program. However, Gov. Shapiro blocked the funding due to commitments made to teachers’ union representatives and other groups, despite previously expressing support for the initiative.
The bill now moves to the state House for further deliberation.