Southwest Allegheny News

Rep. Jason Ortitay from Pennsylvania has expressed his dissatisfaction with the Fiscal Year 2024-25 state budget, particularly regarding its allocation for education. Ortitay voted against the budget, citing a lack of funding dedicated to early literacy programs.

"Despite calls from educators, parents and students and an almost $1.2 billion increase in education spending, no money in this state budget is allocated to help make sure our children can read," said Ortitay. He emphasized the importance of implementing a strong, evidence-based reading program for young children. According to Ortitay, teaching children how to read significantly impacts their mental health and academic success.

Ortitay highlighted concerning statistics about literacy rates in Pennsylvania, noting that in 2019, 60% of fourth-grade students were not proficient in reading—a figure that rose to 66% by 2022. He argued that the state's current approach is ineffective and pointed out that neighboring states have taken action by including science of reading initiatives in their budgets.

"As Albert Einstein said, 'insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.' How we are teaching our students to read is not working," he stated. Ortitay criticized Gov. Josh Shapiro's approach, stating that increased funding alone does not solve the problem. "Since 2009, state funding for education has increased by 56% while reading proficiency has decreased by 23%."

Despite his disappointment with the current budget decision, Ortitay vowed to continue advocating for evidence-based reading programs. "While I am extremely disappointed, I will continue to advocate on this important issue," he said.

The areas represented by Ortitay include parts of Allegheny County and Washington County within Pennsylvania's 46th Legislative District.