September 29, 2022 - Erie, PA
Governor Tom Wolf joined Department of Education Acting Secretary Eric Hagarty at Strong Vincent Middle School to announce Erie's Public Schools (EPS) official removal from Financial Watch status, following more than five years of recovery efforts by district leaders and increased education funding under Governor Wolf's leadership."I am immensely proud of Erie's Public Schools, and the years of work leaders have dedicated to improving their financial health," said Gov. Wolf. "Their removal from this designation today marks the first time in the commonwealth a district has been removed from Financial Watch status. It is a monumental accomplishment. Erie has demonstrated its ability to maintain a structurally balanced budget, and made strategic investments in students, staff, and programs that previously struggled due to financial challenges. Through strong partnerships and oversight locally - and additional education funding from my administration - the district was able to stabilize its finances. Their recovery process should serve as a model for other school districts that are struggling financially."EPS Superintendent Brian Polito joined Governor Wolf in celebrating the announcement and highlighted the district's ability to establish and maintain its hard-won financial stability.List of SpeakersBrian Polito, SuperintendentPennsylvania Governor Tom WolfRepresentative Pat HarkinsSenator Dan LaughlinJim Ohrn, Financial Administrator Rep. Bob MerskiSecretary Eric Hagarty, PDE
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