Dear Families,
 
I wanted to give you an update about what is happening in Harrisburg. We are waiting for Gov. Ed Rendell to unveil is budget on Wednesday.  We will let you know if there is anything in his budget that would effect the funding of our public cyber charter schools. Recently, Gov. Rendell indicated the budget shortfall this year is expected to reach $2.3 billion.  He also indicated there would be possible layoffs of up to 2,000 state workers.

He went on to say, "Everything is on the table.”  Given the budget shortfall and potential cuts in state government, we need to contact our legislators as soon as possible!  Even if you have talked to them before, we need to let them know how much cyber schooling means to our families!

While they are sure to hear from our critics, they need to hear from families who will be affected if cuts in funding are made to our schools. When you contact them ask them to preserve the funding for our public cyber charter schools.  We need as many families as possible to contact your legislators.

If you do not know who your legislator is, you can go to our website www.pacyberfamilies.org and click on useful links.  Click on “Find Your Legislator”.  On the next page enter your zip code in the upper right corner.  It will bring up a listing of your representative and your senator.   

When you write your letters, please keep in mind the following points:

* Tell a personal story about why public cybers are the best option for your family.
* Our schools are public schools.
* Our kids and their schools deserve to be treated fairly.
* They are a great option for 21,000 families.
* The state spends nearly $10 billion on public education. Less than one percent is spent on cyber schools.
* Our schools are subject to the same strict accountability standards as any other public school.
 
Thanks for helping to protect our public cyber schools! We will keep you posted about any changes in Harrisburg!
 
Keep moving forward!
Cindy Strausburger
President