The 2022-23 state budget recently approved by the General Assembly includes a $200 million increase for safety and mental health needs in both public and non-public schools in Berks County, according to Senator David G. Argall (R-29). The budget increases statewide spending on mental health support and physical safety and security enhancements for schools by $100 million each.
“I’m thankful this critical funding is coming to our region to ensure our schools are safe, especially after the tragic shooting in Uvalde, Texas earlier this year,” said Senator Argall. “Just a few years ago, Governor Wolf proposed providing $0 for school safety measures. We’ve shown him just how important these dollars are.”
As Chairman of the Majority Policy Committee, Senator Argall held ten separate roundtable discussions on school safety in past sessions. After hearing repeatedly that proper funding was needed to address safety concerns, the General Assembly created the School Safety and Security Grant Program.
The following Berks County public schools in the 29th Senate District received funding:
- Conrad Weiser Area School District: $274,608
- Fleetwood Area School District: $270,786
- Hamburg Area School District: $263,695
- Kutztown Area School District: $241,981
- Schuylkill Valley School District: $264,232
- Tulpehocken Area School District: $240,688
- Wilson School District: $384,209
