Tom Corbett Is Not Moved By Your School Budget Crisis, Philadelphia

Speaking Tuesday, Tom Corbett rejected a desperate plea for $45 million in state funds to help close Philly’s gaping school budget hole.

Corbett’s budget secretary, Charles Zogby, said the money would not be available until the teachers’ union signs a contract that includes substantial “fiscal savings and academic reforms.” “The law is clear,” Corbett reiterated during an appearance in Chester. “Until that takes place, there can be no release of funds.”

Carrots and sticks; desperate times and desperate measures. It’s a Race-to-the-Top-style strategy, in other words. Which is only going to endear the Corbett administration more to the teachers unions. [Inquirer]