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For Immediate Release
May 23, 2012
Contact: Matt Parido
717-397-1309

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- Senator Smucker
- Senator Dinniman
- Senator Ferlo

Senate Passes Smucker Open Campus Bill

HARRISBURG – The Senate approved legislation today that would allow the open campus initiative created by three Lancaster County school districts to proceed as an education demonstration project.

Senate Bill 1492, sponsored by Senator Lloyd Smucker (R-13), would allow the open campus initiative developed by Penn Manor, Hempfield, and Manheim Township school districts to serve as a statewide model to broaden educational opportunities for students without adding costs to taxpayers.

Smucker's legislation would lay the groundwork for school districts to participate in cooperative agreements to share resources. Courses would be available to students through the use of videoconferencing, online instruction and other electronic communications.

"The staff and administrators at these three school districts deserve a great deal of praise for creating a proposal that provides clear benefits to students, parents and taxpayers," Smucker said. "This innovative plan could offer a glimpse into the future of education not only in Pennsylvania, but across the country."

The open campus plan allows expanded course offerings to students while reducing classroom overcrowding without the need for costly new school construction projects.

Senate Bill 1492 will now be sent to the House of Representatives for consideration.