Disappointment in Failure to Fund Non-Public College Tuition in Pennsylvania
To Pennsylvania’s senators and representatives:
In an open letter to Pennsylvania’s senators and representatives, David A Messineo expresses his disappointment in their leadership and opposition to their failure to fund a portion of college tuition for four non-public institutions whose students are Pennsylvania residents.
Messineo claims that withholding this funding constitutes an abuse of government authority and a misuse of taxpayer funds. He argues that by making tuition costs prohibitive, the legislators will effectively deny students the ability to attend these institutions, which have made efforts to remain affordable. He questions the integrity of their actions, considering the commitments they made during recent campaigns.
Acknowledging the argument that money should “follow the student, not the institution,” Messineo also addresses the opposing party’s perspective, backed by the teacher’s union, that this decision defunds public institutions. He points out that both parties are guilty of treating each other as adversaries and ultimately putting the early-in-career population at a disadvantage.
Messineo criticizes both parties for aligning with extremist bubbles and hiding behind voting blocs. He accuses them of playing a risky game of deception to maintain power while students pay the price. He argues that supporting college tuition provides reliable access to quality education for students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds and promotes a competitive environment that encourages excellence.
Moreover, Messineo highlights the importance of affordable tuition in ensuring a well-trained and educated workforce that supports local industries, encourages new businesses, and promotes economic development. He emphasizes the positive impact of consistent funding on social mobility, allowing students from disadvantaged backgrounds to break the cycle of poverty through higher education.
Messineo stresses the significance of collaboration between the public and private sectors for launching students early in their careers. He warns that cutting off funding to these institutions would jeopardize established practices, available apprenticeships, and dependable partnerships, potentially leading to graduates lacking the necessary skills for higher-paying jobs.
Furthermore, Messineo argues against relying solely on student loans to address high tuition costs. He contends that government intervention in markets allowed colleges and universities to increase tuition substantially. He believes that tuition assistance respects parental contributions to their children’s education and encourages colleges to invest in appealing programs.
Messineo concludes his letter by urging Pennsylvania’s legislators to reconsider their decision and ensure the continuation of essential funding for non-public college tuition. He emphasizes the importance of responsible and accountable governance, as well as the prudent use of tax dollars, for the welfare of citizens and the state’s future.
David A Messineo, a previous board member of the Wellsboro Area School District, writes the letter with full disclosure that his daughter may be directly affected by the legislature’s actions.
Overall, Messineo’s letter raises concerns about the impact of failing to fund non-public college tuition in Pennsylvania and urges legislators to prioritize access to education, resources, social mobility, community cohesion, and parental support.
Original Story at www.tiogapublishing.com – 2023-07-20 10:15:00
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