HARRISBURG – Legislation sponsored by Sen. Tracy Pennycuick (R-24) to reduce the educational challenges faced by children of National Guard and Reserve members was unanimously approved today by the Senate.
Military families face frequent reassignments, posing educational challenges for children transitioning between schools in different states. Senate Bill 209 will give children of National Guard and Reserve members the same help provided to those of active-duty military families through the Military Interstate Children’s Compact. The compact provides a consistent set of policies that make getting started in a new school, joining extracurricular activities, facilitating enrollment and meeting graduation requirements as easy as possible for military children.
“I know firsthand the challenges military families can face, as I raised young children during my military service,” Pennycuick said. “Military families often move, and children of National Guard and Reserve members can have a difficult time adjusting to new schools and new rules. Extending the benefits of the Military Interstate Children’s Compact will be a great help these families and keep their children on track and set them up for a lifetime of success.”
Pennycuick, a U.S. Army Combat veteran, was appointed to the State Council on the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children earlier this year.
Senate Bill 209 now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration.
CONTACT: Lidia DiFiore