Public schools across Pennsylvania are facing significant financial issues as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
One of main drivers of budget concerns center around the funding of charter schools. More students enrolled in cyber charter schools this year, which are funded partially by public schools.
According to a new report from the Pennsylvania Association of School Administrators, the 500 public schools in the Keystone State have paid charter schools $475 million this school year. Specifically, cyber charter schools have received $350 million in funding.
Locally, this issue has been raised by school districts like Mars, which has indicated a nearly $1.3 million looming budget shortfall due to increased enrollment in cyber charter schools.