Pennsylvania’s childcare system is in crisis. This crisis is hurting parents, educators, children, and our economy. And until we take bold action, the strain on working families will only deepen. Families across our commonwealth are getting squeezed from every direction. Right now, infant childcare in Berks County costs an average of $13,068 per year, nearly equal to in-state college tuition. For many families, childcare is their single biggest household expense after housing. That is simply not sustainable for parents who are already stretched thin by rising costs, unpredictable schedules, and workplaces that depend on reliable care. I recently visited White House Daycare in Reading, a high-quality provider serving families across the community, to hear firsthand the pressures facing both parents and educators. What I heard was troubling, but unfortunately, not surprising. The director shared that while staff truly love the work, many ultimately leave because “it’s not a viable career” due to low sector wages. Early learning and childcare teachers are certified, degreed professionals, yet they make a fraction of what they could teaching at a local public school district. Providers want to raise wages, but they can’t because families are already stretched to their limit. And when early childhood educators can earn more in retail or fast food, it becomes nearly impossible for programs to retain staff, Read more
HARRISBURG, Dec. 8 – The Pennsylvania Department of Education has recognized an Antietam School District employee for a national award, state Rep. Jacklyn Rusnock, D-Berks, announced today. Ken Bonkoski, school facilities manager at Antietam School District, was one of two employees nominated for the 2026 Pennsylvania Recognizing Inspiring School Employees Award . He was nominated by Rusnock and her office. “I’ve worked closely with Ken and have seen first-hand how deserving he is of this recognition,” Rusnock said. “He goes above and beyond his typical responsibilities at the district to make sure students and staff have an environment that is welcoming and well run.” “Ken is often the first person in the school buildings, and many times the last to leave,” Rusnock continued. “As a representative, I have the privilege of meeting many dedicated individuals -- but few embody the spirit of service quite like Ken. I was so proud to nominate him for this award and am even prouder to share that he’s been selected.” The Shapiro administration has asked the U.S. Secretary of Education to consider Bonkoski for the national RISE award, which will be announced this spring. One of last year’s Pennsylvania RISE recipients, Officer Jim Green from Butler Area School District, was named the national RISE Award winner for his exemplary service to his Read more
Welcome to my monthly newsletter! I love connecting with my constituents-- so much so that I wanted to create a monthly email that highlights what’s happening across the district and in Harrisburg. Read more
Rusnock and her staff will be available to answer any questions about state government issues, programs and services. Read more
I am speaking at the 2025 PA Oral Health Summit this month! Read more
I've been working hard in the House to pass bills that improve your life and the health and prosperity of our community! Read more
State Rep. Jacklyn Rusnock will host a free community shredding event from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 11 at Muhlenberg High School, 400 Sharp Ave., Reading. Read more
“Our community suffered incredible damage to homes, businesses and schools in recent years, and our residents continue to pick up the pieces from the devastating losses that continue to affect all the families touched by recent floods,” said state Rep. Jacklyn Rusnock, who represents portions of Berks County. “Experts attempting to repair and alleviate flood risks acknowledged this problem is bigger than they can solve at the local level, and they are asking for more help at the state and federal level.” Read more
– State Rep. Jacklyn Rusnock is inviting older residents to attend her senior fraud prevention event in partnership with the state Attorney General’s office on April 15. Read more
“Skyline Drive is a busy roadway for residents and visitors alike, so I’m proud to secure this funding to enhance safety for everyone who uses it,” Rusnock said. Read more
“This is a great example of how state funding can address local environmental challenges while improving an important recreational area that so many nearby residents enjoy,” Rusnock said. Read more
"I am honored to have earned the trust of my community to serve as their state representative. This is a responsibility I take very seriously, and I am ready to work hard every day to deliver results for the people of Berks County,” Rusnock said. Read more
Each year, the Pennsylvania Treasury receives millions of dollars of unclaimed property. It is estimated that roughly one in 10 Pennsylvanians has unclaimed property. Unclaimed property may include: Closed bank accounts Uncashed checks, including paychecks Lost stocks and bonds Contents of safe deposit boxes Proceeds from the demutualization of insurance companies Expired gift cards/gift certificates To find out if you have unclaimed property, search your name in the Unclaimed Property database at https://www.patreasury.gov/unclaimed-property/ or call 1-800-222-2046. There is NO CHARGE to claim your unclaimed property. Read more
Don't miss your chance at a rebate on your property taxes or rent paid in 2024! The deadline is fast approaching on June 30th, 2025. My office can help you find out if you qualify and apply. We can also help you with your heating bills. Read more
Pennsylvania has a Children's Health Insurance Program that provides free and low-cost health care insurance to children. CHIP is not welfare – it covers children of working parents whose employers don't offer coverage and who can't afford private insurance. If you can't afford health insurance for your children, chances are they are eligible for CHIP. It's easy to sign up for CHIP If you think your children are eligible for CHIP, you can sign them up by calling 1-800-986-KIDS or visit www.chipcoverspakids.com . You can also contact my office for questions about your situation. What does CHIP cover? Immunizations Routine Check-ups Diagnostic Testing Prescriptions Dental, Vision, Hearing Services Emergency Care Maternity Care Mental Health Benefits Up to 90 Days Hospitalization in any Year Durable Medical Equipment Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Partial Hospitalization for Mental Health Rehabilitation Therapy Home Health Care Does my family qualify? The following factors are considered for a child's eligibility for CHIP: The family's income is within certain levels. Must not be eligible for Medicaid or have any other health insurance. Must be under age 19. Must be a U.S. citizen or lawful alien. Must be a Pennsylvania resident for at least 30 days, except for a newborn. Read more
PennDOT has announced that the requirement for proof of Social Security Number for REAL ID products will expand to include additional documents. Per federal regulations, customers wishing to obtain a REAL ID product must present proof of Social Security Number. PennDOT is now expanding acceptable options beyond a Social Security Card. PennDOT now accepts the following documents as proofs of Social Security Number: Social Security Card. W-2 form. SSA-1099 form. Non-SSA-1099 form. Pay stub with the applicant’s name and full Social Security Number on it. For more information and to get your REAL ID, visit the link here . Read more
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