And in Philadelphia? Where 33 percent of the children live in poverty? Only $6,345.26 per student and 49 percent planning on college.
There are exceptions, such as the excellent Masterman and Central High Schools and the Science Leadership Academy. But they receive some additional funding through grants and private contributions and have the privilege of selecting students who are already motivated and talented.
The budget cuts, as always, hurt those most in need and least able to push back:
Children who now won't benefit from early-enrichment programs. Middle schoolers who now won't have outlets for their rammy adolescent energy by playing the saxophone in the band. High school students who now won't learn a foreign language or get help editing essays in classrooms that now will be overcrowded.
In his inaugural address, Corbett, a former public-school civics teacher, said, "The best way to make us competitive is to make us competitive in education. Today, our students compete not only with those from the other 49 states, but with students from around the world." That's something everyone can agree with.
But his plan to help them by disinvesting in their future has made even his GOP allies balk.
Raising taxes is not an option. (That struggling districts will have to raise property taxes doesn't count.) There has been talk about restoring some educating funding. How? By taking even bigger chunks from public welfare programs. Less money to help old people heat their homes in winter. Less money to train single mothers for jobs. Less money to provide fruits and vegetables to kids.
A bold move. And cheap at half the price.
Contact staff writer Melissa Dribben at 215-854-2590 or mdribben@phillynews.com.
