Holding the Line for Public Education
Budget passed, students protected, and public schools defended this summer
Volume #12 - July 2025
Even in the heart of summer, the work of public education doesn’t slow down. This July, Council Rock was notified that over $240,000 in federal Title funding—support intended for our most vulnerable students—had been withheld. I joined my colleagues in passing a bipartisan resolution urging legislators to take action. And I’m pleased to report: those funds are now being released. This advocacy worked because we stayed focused and united on what matters—supporting every child.
Moments like this are a stark reminder: public education is under pressure. Whether it’s unpredictable funding, rising costs, or political efforts to undermine our schools, the need for committed, steady leadership at the local level has never been clearer. While others politicize or downplay these challenges, I remain focused on protecting and strengthening our public schools—for every student, in every zip code.
Like many of you, I just received my school tax bill. And like you, I feel the impact of every decision we make on the board. The 2.93% tax increase we approved was not something any of us took lightly. After months of careful review, community input, and tough conversations, we arrived at what we felt was the most responsible path forward—one that avoids cutting teachers or programs, even as we continue to operate at a deficit.
We worked hard this spring to pass a responsible budget that protects teachers, programs, and students—without kicking the can down the road. While it included a modest increase, it came well below Pennsylvania’s Act 1 Index (our district’s allowable inflationary increase), which this year was 4.0%. It was the only option that let us avoid devastating cuts and still meet our obligations. Some pushed for a lower number without presenting a realistic plan to bridge the gap. In the end, I stood with my colleagues in supporting a budget that reflects our community’s values: strong public schools, supported educators, and stability for every child.
This increase was driven in large part by unavoidable cost escalations: a 30% increase in goods and materials and 4–6% increases in contractual services like transportation and custodial support. These are not extras—they're the foundation of a safe and functioning school system.
What We’ve Accomplished Together:
✅ Passed the 2025–26 budget (approved 5–4) without cutting teachers or programs
✅ Helped restore $242,332 in federal Title funding after supporting a bipartisan resolution—ensuring continued support for our most at-risk learners
✅ Approved the American Civilization high school textbook (approved 6–3), ensuring our students have access to an updated, inclusive curriculum that meets state standards (Without a board majority, this crucial resource would not have been approved)
✅ Finalized a new 5-year teachers' contract (approved 7–2) after productive negotiations with the Council Rock Education Association, providing long-term stability for our students and families while supporting the professionals who show up for our kids every day
✅ Laid the groundwork for a successful full-day kindergarten rollout
A Few Education Committee Highlights:
We continue to plan for full-day kindergarten this fall. As of our last update, 529 students had registered, and our principals and administrators are working closely to build balanced classrooms. Summer professional development is underway for kindergarten teachers to align on curriculum, scheduling, and student support.
We're also preparing for the state-mandated shift to structured literacy. This year’s budget includes six additional literacy specialists, with the goal of placing a Wilson-certified teacher in every building.
In special education, Dr. Oberman and his team are leading efforts to improve inclusion and transparency. A new family guidance document, website resources, and PD plans are in the works to create greater equity across schools.
Looking Ahead:
Implementation of a student wellness program integrated into classroom teaching and learning, with more to come in the fall Education Committee meetings
Continued focus on classroom equity and federal funding impacts
Launch of the high school start time/schedule committee
Implementation of structured literacy programs districtwide
Final full-day kindergarten prep across all elementary schools
Reminders for the 2025–26 School Year:
A new lunch payment system from Aramark is launching: MySchoolBucks. Be on the look out for information from administration on setting up your new account.
The Home Access Center (HAC) opens August 18.
SunBucks: A one-time payment of $120 per eligible child to help families buy groceries this summer, provided by the PA Department of Education & Human Services. More info here.
Final Note:
As always, thank you for your engagement, your questions, and your support. I’m always happy to connect—please don’t hesitate to reach out.
This summer has reminded me how important steady, student-centered leadership is—especially when public education is under pressure. I remain committed to showing up, doing the work, and putting students first in every decision we make.
NOTE: The opinions expressed in this newsletter are not official statements made on behalf of the entire Council Rock School Board or Council Rock administration. It is for informational purposes and responses or inquiries cannot be made in an official school district manner.