Executive Basics
What is the main job of the executive branch?
To execute, or carry out, the laws.
In which role is the President the leader of the Army and Navy?
Commander in Chief.
What is the nickname often given to the federal bureaucracy?
The "Fourth Branch".
What is the major source of funding for local school districts?
Local property taxes.
What is the "Hold Harmless" policy in PA school funding?
A policy that guarantees schools funding based on the previous year's budget, even if enrollment drops.
Who is the executive leader of Pennsylvania?
Josh Shapiro.
Which role involves the President acting as the leader of foreign policy?
Chief Diplomat.
Name one example of a Government Corporation.
Any one: USPS, Amtrak, TVA, or PBS.
What constitutional amendment leaves school funding largely to the states?
The Tenth Amendment.
Why does Philadelphia have a hard time raising revenue through property taxes?
It has a lot of non-taxable land (government/non-profit) and high poverty rates
How long is a presidential term, and what is the maximum number of terms?
A four-year term; maximum of two terms.
As "Chief Legislator," what can the President do to bills proposed by Congress?
Veto them.
What is "red tape"?
Redundant or complex regulation and procedures
What does "federalism" combine to govern?
National, state, and local governments
What was the landmark ruling in the William Penn School District et al. case?
That the state’s school funding system was unconstitutional
Name two qualifications for being President of the United States.
Any two: Natural-born citizen, lived in the US for 14+ years, or at least 35 years old.
What is the "Chief Executive" role's primary responsibility?
To "faithfully execute" the laws of the United States.
Who has the power to create or abolish federal agencies?
US Congress.
What is the "mill rate" used for?
Calculating property tax bills (Property value x mill rate / 1000)
What factors does the "New Funding Formula" include?
Student-based factors like poverty levels, English language learners, and charter enrollment.
Who is the current Mayor of Philadelphia?
Cherelle Parker.
Which role sees the President representing all the people as a moral leader?
Chief Citizen.
What is an Independent Regulatory Commission (IRC)?
An agency that exists to regulate a specific economic activity (e.g., the FCC)
How does the PA Governor typically start the budget process?
By proposing a budget address to the PA General Assembly.
What is a charter school?
An independently run public school of choice funded by tax dollars.