STROUDSBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania House Education Committee continued its statewide review of cyber charter school accountability with a third informational meeting held on Thursday, May 8, at Stroudsburg High School. The session highlighted pressing issues related to governance, financial practices, and transparency, signaling a growing push for reforms in the state’s cyber charter school system.
The meeting, led by Majority Chair Rep. Peter Schweyer (D-Lehigh), addressed complaints from school districts and calls for better oversight of cyber charter schools. Schweyer pointed to data showing the need for improved practices to ensure all students receive a high-quality education. “We know cyber education works for some students and families, no one disputes that,” Schweyer said. “But data clearly shows cyber charter schools need to be held accountable to ensure every child in Pennsylvania is receiving a quality education.”
Testimony from various stakeholders painted a complex picture of the challenges. Dr. Cosmas C. Curry, Superintendent of the Stroudsburg Area School District, brought attention to enrollment irregularities. “We can tell from an IP address if the student is living in the community or even the state,” Curry said. “When we tell a cyber charter that a student is not living in our district anymore or within the boundaries per our policy, it is brushed off and becomes our problem to deal with.”
Financial accountability emerged as another key issue. Jonathon Shiota, Business Administrator of 21st Century Cyber Charter School, highlighted contrasts between how traditional districts and cyber charters manage finances. “Districts answer directly to local taxpayers and often center efforts on controlling expenditures. At a cyber charter school, our focus is ensuring that state-required tuition is received accurately, and that those funds are managed to support statewide educational access,” Shiota explained.
The session also featured experts from the Education Law Center, the Pennsylvania School Boards Association, and other education organizations. They underscored concerns about how public funds are allocated and managed, setting the stage for potential legislative action.
A fourth meeting in the series is planned, with more details expected soon. The ongoing review reflects the committee’s effort to address both the strengths and shortcomings of Pennsylvania’s cyber charter schools, ensuring a fair and effective system for all students.
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