Pennsylvanians "Stand for Children"

Good Schools Pennsylvania, an advocacy organization fighting for a quality education for every child in the state, is spearheading an ambitious and dramatic effort called "Stand for Children." "Stand for Children" volunteers travel to Harrisburg to maintain a presence at the Pennsylvania legislature every day that it is in session from January 27 to June 30, 2003, with the goal of lobbying legislators on behalf of the educational rights of every Pennsylvania child. Protestant (at least six different denominations), Catholic, and Jewish groups, college student groups, and school groups have signed up for almost every day on the calendar and have brought out significant numbers of people in all kinds of weather. Good Schools Pennsylvania concentrates its efforts on the state legislature because the state courts have ruled that "equity" and "adequacy" cases are not justiciable.

Despite the good turnout so far, more volunteers are needed. Through its website and its grassroots "groups of ten," which primarily include school and church groups, Good Schools Pennsylvania recruits people for this massive endeavor. Individuals and organizations can register on the Good Schools Pennsylvania site or call (888) 543-4772.

Prepared April 3, 2003