West Montgomery Times

Pennsylvania's population is projected to grow by just 1.6 percent through 2050, compared to a national growth rate of 20 percent, according to the Center for Rural PA. The state's fastest-growing age demographic is adults aged 85 and above. Concurrently, college costs and student debt remain significant issues in Pennsylvania, which ranks among the worst states in terms of average student debt and among the five costliest states for higher education.

Senator Tracy Pennycuick (24th District) emphasizes that failing to address these trends could lead to severe budgetary pressures as a shrinking labor force struggles to support an aging population. She advocates for a new approach to post-secondary education aimed at making Pennsylvania more competitive and addressing economic and demographic challenges.

"Rather than pursuing expensive, big-government solutions with unclear outcomes like Governor Shapiro’s PASSHE-Community College merger, we need a plan that focuses on young people and employers – putting students first," Pennycuick stated.

The proposed Grow PA initiative seeks to create new grant and scholarship programs under PHEAA. These programs are designed to encourage students to enter high-priority fields and attract out-of-state students who would be incentivized to stay in Pennsylvania after graduation.

"We need more teachers, large animal veterinarians, nurses, law enforcement officers, trade workers, and workers in other key Pennsylvania industries," Pennycuick said. "Grow PA puts an emphasis on these fields and provides an affordable pathway for young people."

Grow PA also aims to expand successful existing programs such as Ready to Succeed Scholarships and the Targeted Industry Cluster Program. Grants would be available for students attending any Pennsylvania school in one of the priority fields of study.

Additionally, a new Merit Scholarship Program would attract high-performing out-of-state students with the promise that they will stay in Pennsylvania after graduation in high-priority occupations. If commitments are not fulfilled, awards would convert into loans.

Pennycuick has sponsored Senate Bill 1153 to expand the Fostering Independence Tuition Waiver Program nationwide for children attending PASSHE schools. This legislation allows adopted and foster children from other states to benefit from financial aid and tuition waivers available in Pennsylvania.

"Giving kids in foster care and those who were adopted from throughout this great country a chance to come to Pennsylvania not only helps these kids but helps our Commonwealth attract new students," she added.

Other reforms include encouraging universal FAFSA completion, increasing dual enrollment opportunities, and further promoting career and technical opportunities.

Pennycuick positions Grow PA as a responsible alternative to Governor Shapiro’s higher education plans: "It’s time to address college affordability and open quality career pathways for our young people."

Senator Tracy Pennycuick represents the 24th District of Pennsylvania, which includes parts of Berks and Montgomery counties.

Contact: Lidia Di Fiore (215) 541-2388