Rep. Kristin Marcell (R-Bucks) and the House Republican Policy Committee, led by Chairman Josh Kail (R-Beaver/Washington), recently convened a hearing to examine the efforts and strategies employed by the Council Rock School District and the Middle Bucks Institute of Technology (MBIT) to deliver high-quality education while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
The hearing, titled “Back to School,” took place at the Middle Bucks Institute of Technology and featured testifiers Michael Roosevelt, member of the Council Rock School Board; Dr. Andrew J. Sanko, superintendent of Council Rock School District; Dr. Mark Covelle, director of Middle Bucks Institute of Technology; Bob Hickey, president of Middle Bucks Institute of Technology Executive Council; Thomas McCullough, graduate of MBIT and local business owner; and Carla Zapotek, executive vice president of Home Builders Association of Bucks and Montgomery Counties.
Like all schools, those in Council Rock School District experienced setbacks and learning loss during the pandemic. With the implementation of creative programs such as Council Rock’s “Nights for Knowledge” tutoring program, the school district has made progress in getting their students back on track. They have also created a district property tax and rent rebate program for seniors to help provide relief to qualified taxpayers. The motto “Students First Always” plays an important role in keeping the school district’s priorities in check, explained the testifiers.
“Council Rock School District is a stellar example of a district that practices what it preaches. Through innovative programming at the helm of strong leadership, they have maintained excellent student outcomes while focusing on the needs of our families and community,” said Marcell. “Our schools need to be preparing tomorrow’s workforce. Middle Bucks Institute of Technology is doing just that, presenting opportunities for students to jumpstart family-sustaining careers without crippling debt and ultimately boosting Pennsylvania’s economy.”
As indicated in the testimony, enrollment at MBIT is at an all-time high. This trend should serve as a signal to other school districts that there is great value in collaborating with local trade schools.
“Education is about creating a pipeline between schools and Pennsylvania industry. No matter what profession a child wants to pursue – whether a doctor, a lawyer, a welder, a business owner, or a plumber – we need an education system that reflects our 21st-century needs. I commend Council Rock School District and Middle Bucks Institute of Technology for recognizing this and providing hope to students and their community,” said Kail.
To watch the complete hearing, visit pagoppolicy.com/video/policy.
Representative Kristin Marcell
178th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Will Patterson
215-330-3711
wpatterson@pahousegop.com
repmarcell.com
