Gov. Tom Wolf signed a bill into law on Wednesday to provide direct support to Pennsylvania youth experiencing educational instability, ensuring they have a clear pathway to high school graduation.
Senate Bill 324 was introduced by Sen. Wayne Langherholc, R-Bedford County. It provides graduation planning and a smoother transfer of academic credits, among other resources for young people in Pennsylvania who are experiencing homelessness or who are in the foster-care or juvenile-justice systems.
Rachael Miller, policy director at Pennsylvania Partnerships for Children, said many students face challenges outside their control.
“For example, changes in physical homes or moves between counties and ultimately disruption in their education,” Miller outlined. “The legislation really levels the playing field for disadvantaged youths who often experience poorer outcomes than their peers based on these unique experiences.”