Today, Governor Josh Shapiro made a notable visit to Antietam School District in Berks County, where he announced a significant $75 million in grants designated for environmental improvements in Pennsylvania schools. This initiative spearheaded by the governor aims to ensure students across the state are welcomed into educational environments free from health hazards like lead, asbestos, and other harmful contaminants. According to the Pennsylvania government website, these funds form part of Shapiro's steadfast commitment, detailed in his initial budget addresses, to deliver sustainable solutions for the state's aging school infrastructures.

In alignment with the Commonwealth's budget for 2024-25, a groundbreaking $1.1 billion boost is set to elevate K-12 public education funding. Touted as the largest year-over-year increase in Pennsylvania’s history, this fiscal decision not only underlines Governor Shapiro’s education-centric agenda but also the collaborative efforts of bipartisan legislators. It's a particularly poignant development for the Antietam School District, which last summer saw its middle-senior high school devastated by flooding so severe, that the building was rendered unusable. Shapiro's environment-focused grant is poised to play a crucial role in turning the page on such tragic facilities crises.

Superintendent Dr. Timothy Matlack of the Antietam School District notably expressed his approval and anticipation. Echoing these sentiments were Secretary of Education Dr. Khalid N. Mumin and Sen. Judy Schwank, who also partook in this significant announcement, emphasizing the rippling positive effects these grants are expected to have on Pennsylvania's learners.