We could not have done this without you. Your donation will support the momentum we need to move forward and help build a public education system in Pennsylvania that works for all the children of the commonwealth.

“Michael, we did it. We won!”

On February 7, I heard those words from so many colleagues and friends at the Public Interest Law Center and across Pennsylvania. It was a historic day, as Commonwealth Court ruled in our favor in our case challenging Pennsylvania’s school funding system for failing students across the state. As we read the judge’s decision, we saw our clients’ testimony validated as the day-to-day hardships facing Pennsylvania students.

She had heard all of us–students and families, superintendents and teachers, education experts–and agreed that Pennsylvania’s two-tiered funding system, divided by wealth, is unfair. For too long, our elected leaders in Harrisburg have shortchanged the kids – living in poverty, minorities, with disabilities – who need the most and denied them the comprehensive, contemporary and effective public education our state constitution promises. Now, that must change.

Let me be clear, we could not have done this without you. So, THANK YOU! You helped us achieve this landmark victory.

I am always amazed at how expensive the fight for justice is and very grateful that so many of you have been ready to support the important work we do at the Law Center year after year. And I’m glad to welcome those of you who are new to the fight. As this case shows, we know how to make your support change lives.

As we celebrated this victory in early February, we immediately began to prepare for the possibility of an appeal, and then to create and enforce a school funding solution that gives students an equal and meaningful opportunity to learn. Much as we wish for it, our work is not yet done. We continue the fight to protect public education, and we still need your support. Doing the most important work takes time. Your donation will support the momentum we need to move forward and help build a public education system in Pennsylvania that works for all the children of the commonwealth, no matter their community’s wealth, their race, or where they live.

Thank you for being in the fight with us!

-Michael Churchill