Public Education

My Plan

+ Increase Teacher Pay

Increase teacher pay so that teachers can focus on teaching. The federal government can assist by repayment of loans for those entering the teaching field and an increase in federal funds for schools identified as tax drought areas.

+ Decrease Class Size

Decrease class size. Children are natural, discovery-based learners, but our overcrowded classrooms do not allow teachers to capitalize on that natural curiosity with innovative teaching methods. Smaller class sizes allow teachers to learn about their students and find ways to help those who are struggling and challenge those who need it. We can make sure that innovative strategies are shared nationally by recognizing programs/teachers and sponsoring innovation conferences and workshops.

+ Increase Funding

Provide federal funding for art, music, physical education, civics classes, and comprehensive health education.

+ Feed Students

Through the Department of Agriculture, offer every student a healthy breakfast and lunch. It is hard to learn when all you can think about is food.

Increase the number of school counselors and social workers. When teachers, staff, or administrators notice students in crisis, they should have the resources to intervene. Forgiving student loans for those entering these fields will help reduce the shortage.

More Background

What happened to our commitment to education? Our teachers are underpaid, and they have so many students in a classroom it’s a wonder they accomplish anything. They pay for school supplies for students who can’t afford to buy their own, and in many low socioeconomic neighborhoods the schools have become decrepit and unsafe. It’s troubling to see your child’s teacher drive up to your house on Saturday night delivering pizza; teacher’s pay should be enough to support them and their families without having to work side jobs. We must invest in our children’s education by remedying these problems. Every other problem we address - climate change, environmental issues, health care, higher education, - depends on addressing these problems and making education a priority once again. Public education is an area reserved for governance by the states, but the federal government can assist in accomplishing these goals.