Peter Schweyer, the state representative for Pennsylvania’s 134th District, said that the state must increase funding for substitute teacher stipends to address the shortage of certified teachers.
“Pennsylvania is facing a shortage of certified teachers,” said Peter G. Schweyer. “I’m urging the governor, the PA House, to increase funding for substitute teacher stipends. These stipends would make a huge difference in helping our teachers bear the cost of training to become certified Pennsylvania teachers.”
Pennsylvania is experiencing a critical shortage of certified teachers, prompting state leaders to launch new programs aimed at boosting recruitment and retention. The Department of Education has expanded partnerships with universities, accelerated certification pathways, and launched marketing efforts to promote the profession. These efforts are part of a broader statewide strategy to rebuild the educator workforce.
According to WHYY, Pennsylvania issued just over 6,000 instructional teaching certificates in 2022, down from nearly 20,000 in 2010—a more than 70% decline. The drop has raised concerns about meeting staffing needs in public schools across the state. The Pennsylvania Department of Education has acknowledged the issue and is implementing measures to streamline certification and attract new educators.
MyPayMySay reports that Pennsylvania substitute teachers face high upfront costs when transitioning to certified roles, including exam fees, coursework, and union dues. These expenses can total thousands of dollars, creating a barrier to entry for prospective full-time educators. The organization highlights this financial strain as a key deterrent in addressing the statewide teacher shortage.
Schweyer has served as state representative for Pennsylvania’s 134th District since 2015. He currently sits on several key House committees and is an advocate for education policy, housing, and workforce development. Schweyer earned his degree from Pennsylvania State University and has a background in community development.
