Visits from State Leaders
A roundtable discussion held at the high school on Friday , January 26 , 2024 , included PA Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis , PA Senator Devlin Robinson , PA Representative Jason Ortitay , and PA Department of Education Deputy Secretary Dr . Carrie Rowe , along with the representatives from the district ’ s counseling and student support services , SFTSD , parent and school board member Dr . Jennifer Iriti , Class of 2023 alumnus Mohammed Shedeed , and current senior Prerna Chakkingal ( shown above with Dr . Rachel Andler , SF ’ s Director of Student Support Services , Mr . Michael Perrot , Middle School Counselor , and Superintendent of Schools Dr . Michelle Miller ).
The focus was to highlight additional resources available for Pennsylvania schools to provide expanded mental health services and supports for students .
The state ’ s 2023-24 bipartisan budget has allotted $ 90 million in non-competitive , student mental health grants to be available for schools across the Commonwealth through February 29 . More than $ 8 million is allocated to Allegheny County .
“ Pennsylvania kids need more support and more services to help them stay safe and healthy , not just physically , but mentally and emotionally , too ,” said Davis .
SF Superintendent Dr . Miller added , “ A student ’ s well-being is the cornerstone upon which their academic success and personal growth are built . We are grateful for the Commonwealth ’ s commitment to supporting our students ’ needs .”
This wasn ’ t Senator Robinson ’ s first visit to campus this academic year . On Thursday , November 2 , SF hosted a “ Senator for a Day ” event with Robinson , several of our ninth grade students , and participants from seven other schools .
Students were provided with an explanation of the legislative process and then broke into committees to discuss eight Senate bills on topics ranging from armed school personnel to
the elimination of the gas tax . They were then led by Senator Robinson in voting on the bills that had garnered the greatest support . It was an extremely insightful educational experience allowing students to gain a hands-on understanding of our governmental processes , as well as a wonderful opportunity to showcase the talent and intelligence of southwestern PA students for the senator .
“ I was so encouraged and impressed by these future leaders , asking insightful and intelligent questions , challenging intent behind the mock bills and amendments , being thoughtful about fiscal impact on the state , etc .!” Senator Robinson stated via social media . “ It was so encouraging to see how engaged they all were , and how they jumped right into the process . Their ideas on these legislative issues were thoughtful and interesting , and all-around impressive !” outh Fayette SOUTH FAYETTE TOWNSHIP SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS
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