Nonpublic Schools to Receive Funding to Protect Students
There is nearly $450,000 in funding is a key state initiative aimed at protecting students and staff at nonpublic schools across the region. Administered through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD), these funds allow schools to upgrade security infrastructure and enhance violence prevention efforts.
Funding Breakdown
- Bradford County: Four schools received a total of over $192,000. St. Agnes School in Towanda is among the local beneficiaries of this safety funding.
- Tioga County: New Covenant Academy in Mansfield was specifically awarded $38,000 to support security and violence prevention.
- Lycoming County: Remaining funds were distributed among the qualifying nonpublic schools across the county.
What the Grants Cover
Schools can utilize this funding to purchase and install security-related technology, complete safety assessments, hire school security personnel, and provide mental health support for students
New Troy School District Budget to Increase Property Tax
The Troy Area School District’s proposed $33 million budget for the 2026–2027 school year includes a planned $959,486 deficit and a 4% property tax increase. To cover rising costs and close the projected funding gap, the tax hike will go into effect unless the board alters the proposal prior to the final vote.
Key figures from the current budget draft include:
- Projected Revenues: $32,061,062
- Projected Expenditures: $33,020,548
- Anticipated Deficit: $959,486 [1]
The full proposal is currently available for public review on the Troy Area School District website
PPL Electric to Raise Distribution Rates
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission approved a settlement authorizing PPL Electric Utilities to raise distribution rates for the first time in eight years, adding about $6.48 to monthly bills for typical residential customers starting July 1, 2026. The commission found the settlement, reached among customer advocates, environmental groups and business interests, serves the public interest. The agreement allows PPL to increase annual base distribution revenues by $275 million. The company’s original rate request sought an annual revenue increase of around $356.3 million. Residential customers who use 1,000 kilowatt-hours monthly will face a 3.23% increase. Commercial customers with similar usage will pay an additional $4.08 per month, while industrial users will see an average monthly increase of $332.54.