By: Sofia Escudero

Across Lancaster, students are speaking out for something bigger than themselves; the future of public education. What started as a Global Politics Internal Assessment turned into a powerful, student-led movement calling attention to the government’s ongoing state budget and funding crisis.

On October 8th, students from McCaskey participated in a peaceful walkout organized by junior Thomas McCoy. The goal was simple: to raise awareness about how the lack of a state budget is hurting our schools and to demand fair funding for all districts.

“There is no future for this nation without education,” McCoy said during the rally. “We’re standing up for what we deserve, a system that values students not politics.”

The School District of Lancaster has been hit especially hard. Due to federal cuts made under the Trump administration, the district is losing around $44 million in funding. On top of that, the ongoing state budget delay has forced SDOL to take out a $35 million loan just to keep the schools operating.“Teachers are stretched thin, programs are being cut, and students are the ones paying the price.” McCoy said.

What began as an International Baccalaureate Global Politics assignment quickly became a real-life example of civic engagement. McCoy spent weeks researching state funding policies, interviewing local leaders like Dr. Miles, and contacting McCaskey students through social media to make further plans.

But not everyone supported the movement. Some online commenters accused the students of being “forced” to protest, and others made racist or dismissive remarks. McCoy says those comments only made the group stronger. “Nobody made us do this,” he said. “We care about our education, and we’re not afraid to speak up.”

McCoy says this is only the beginning. His next goal is to meet with state representatives and launch a petition calling for the passage of a fair state budget. They also hope to inspire other schools across Pennsylvania to join the cause.

“This started as a class project,” McCoy said, “but now it’s a movement. And we’re not stopping until we’re heard.”