PSEA Supports Scarnati Safer Schools Bill

HARRISBURG – The president of Pennsylvania’s largest school employee union today voiced support for Senate Bill 10, legislation introduced by state Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati to improve school safety. It was approved by the Senate today.

Michael Crossey, president of the Pennsylvania State Education Association, today said Sen. Scarnati’s bill will help create safe learning environments for students attending the Commonwealth’s public schools.

“Senator Scarnati’s bill will provide another $10 million for safe schools grants, grants that school districts can use to improve security and support programs that keep students safe,” Crossey said. “PSEA was pleased to work with Sen. Scarnati on this bill. It’s an important step forward in protecting Pennsylvania’s students.

“Senate Bill 10 provides an appropriate balance for the distribution of school safety grants,” Crossey said. “We believe the bill, as amended, recognizes both the importance of school resource officers and the value of research-based programs such as schoolwide positive behavior supports, bullying prevention, or alternative education.”

Crossey said PSEA will continue to work with Sen. Scarnati and all stakeholders to improve state policies in order to ensure safe and secure school environments throughout the Commonwealth.

Crossey is a special education teacher in the Keystone Oaks School District. An affiliate of the National Education Association, PSEA represents more than 183,000 future, active and retired teachers and school employees, and health care workers in Pennsylvania.