BY SUSAN RUMBLE

Special to The Press

State Sen. Jarrett Coleman, R-16th, visited the Parkland School Board recently to report on his support of mandate waivers for public schools.

Coleman said he will be reintroducing Senate Bill 73 from last session.

The purpose of the bill, according to Coleman, is to provide flexibility to public schools and relief from unnecessary mandates.

Coleman partnered with Parkland School District in hosting an education summit in February.

The event was attended by superintendents and education professionals from public schools within the 16th District.

“Additionally, I was honored to bring the chairman of the Senate Education Committee, state Sen. David Argall, R-29th, as well as the executive director of that committee, Cynthia Urban,” Coleman said.

He recalled school officials claimed mandates can place a burden on a district without improving educational outcomes.

Coleman said the Pennsylvania Department of Education can approve a waiver, if school officials supply supporting data to show the instructional program will improve or the school will operate in a more effective, efficient manner, if the mandate is withdrawn.

The measure introduced by Coleman on March 28 is designated Senate Bill 569.

“This legislation makes it clear if a mandate imposed by Harrisburg isn’t advancing education in your districts, school boards should be permitted to find a better, less costly way,” Coleman explained. “I hope the House and Senate can come together and address the concerns shared by our school boards and administration regardless of the members party affiliation.”

Superintendent Dr. Mark Madson commented.

“Thank you for keeping the lines of communication open,” Madson said.