Coal Region News

More than $4.2 million has been allocated to schools in Schuylkill County through the Public School Facility Improvement Grant program. The announcement was made by Representatives Tim Twardzik, JoAnne Stehr, Dane Watro, Jamie Barton, and Senator Dave Argall.

Representative Twardzik expressed his satisfaction with the funding, stating: “I am proud to see significant funding awarded to our schools in Schuylkill County. This investment is vital for ensuring our students have safe and modern facilities to learn and grow. By prioritizing our educational infrastructure, we are making a strong commitment to the future of our communities.”

Watro highlighted the financial benefits of the grants: “These state grants are going toward building upgrades that will improve efficiency and lessen the burden on local property taxpayers. I was pleased to work with Sen. Argall in bringing the funding home.”

Barton emphasized minimizing financial impacts: “I’m proud to bring this funding back to our schools, minimizing the financial impact these projects will have on students, staff, faculty and taxpayers.”

Stehr pointed out safety improvements: “The safety and well-being of our students are top priorities, and these grants will allow our schools to make much-needed improvements. This investment ensures that our children have a safe and secure environment where they can learn and thrive.”

Argall noted his role as chair of the Senate Education Committee: “As the chair of the Senate Education Committee, I understand how serious the need is for better school buildings. Outdated school facilities can put student safety in jeopardy and this highly competitive funding is much needed.”

The nine school districts receiving funds include Blue Mountain School District with $1,075,000 for window replacement and roof repairs at Blue Mountain High School; Mahanoy Area School District receiving $600,000 for HVAC system improvements at Mahanoy Area Elementary School; Pine Grove Area School District getting $250,000 for HVAC upgrades at Pine Grove Area High School; Pottsville Area School District allocated $110,000 for security enhancements across multiple schools; Saint Clair Area School District granted $110,000 for HVAC improvements at Saint Clair Area Elementary/Middle School; Schuylkill County Area Vocational Technical School obtaining $476,805 for roof replacements at its South Campus; Schuylkill Haven Area School District receiving $350,000 for HVAC system updates at Schuylkill Haven Area Middle School; Shenandoah Valley School District awarded $800,000 for HVAC improvements and energy-saving lighting installations; Tamaqua Area School District allocated $450,000 for roof replacement at Tamaqua Area High School.