Senate Co-Sponsorship Memoranda

I will soon introduce legislation that would limit the Keystone Graduation Exams to the current three exams (algebra 1, literature and biology) required by the federal government.

The current Pennsylvania School Code allows up to ten exams, and the PDE/IRRC regulations allow up to five exams. Each of these exams costs millions of dollars to develop, field-test and implement. School districts spend millions of dollars more to provide supplemental instruction to those who fail any of the exams.

Whether one thinks these exams are of value or not, our schools are in great need of the millions of dollars we would spend on the development and implementation of additional exams.

While I am submitting this co-sponsorship memo as prime sponsor, Senator Folmer has indicated his willingness to be the second-listed co-sponsor as an indication of his full support. Both Senator Folmer and I met with Acting Secretary of Education Dumaresq, who indicated that she and PDE will not oppose this legislation.

Your consideration of co-sponsorship is most welcome.