West Montgomery Times

HARRISBURG – Republican lawmakers in Pennsylvania have unveiled a comprehensive higher education reform plan named "Grow PA," aimed at providing more affordable post-secondary education options and creating pathways to quality careers within the state. The initiative was announced by a group of influential senators including Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Senator Scott Martin, Senate Majority Whip Ryan P. Aument, Senate Education Committee Chair David G. Argall, and Senator Tracy Pennycuick.

According to the lawmakers, Pennsylvania is facing a significant decline in college enrollment, which could lead to economic and demographic challenges in the future. Senator Scott Martin emphasized the need for a new approach to post-secondary education to make the state more competitive and address these pressing issues. He stated, "Pennsylvania needs a fresh approach to post-secondary education to ensure we can be more competitive and overcome the economic and demographic challenges that threaten our state’s future."

Senator Aument highlighted the importance of shifting towards a performance-based funding model in higher education to focus resources on programs aligned with in-demand career fields in Pennsylvania. He emphasized the need for creating a direct pipeline from educational institutions to job opportunities within the state.

Senator Argall emphasized the potential of quality higher education to enhance lives and communities but noted that Pennsylvania is lagging behind in this aspect. He expressed the importance of guiding students towards high-demand careers to strengthen colleges and universities in the state.

Senator Pennycuick underscored the significance of investing in students to build a skilled workforce, stating, "A highly skilled workforce is the bedrock of any strong economy and the best way for Pennsylvania to invest in higher education is to fund the student, not systems."

The "Grow PA" plan includes initiatives such as the Grow PA Scholarship Grant Program and the Merit Scholarship Program to incentivize students to pursue higher education in Pennsylvania and remain in the state post-graduation. The plan also focuses on expanding existing assistance programs, promoting career and technical opportunities, and enhancing financial aid awareness through universal completion of the FAFSA.

The lawmakers aim to introduce the bills related to the "Grow PA" plan in the House of Representatives with the support of Representative Jesse Topper, Republican Chair of the House Education Committee.

In conclusion, the "Grow PA" higher education reform plan presents a comprehensive strategy to address the challenges facing Pennsylvania's education system and workforce, emphasizing affordability, career alignment, and retention of talent within the state.