Issue Position: Education

Issue Position

In my first year as state representative, I requested and was granted a seat on the House Education Committee and continue to serve on that Committee today. Education has always been very important to me, and as an 18 year small business owner, I understand how critical it is to have not just an educated workforce, but an educated society as well. My knowledge and experience as a small business owner provides me with a unique perspective on getting things done. If a small business owner can't implement solutions to a problem, they go out of business and this kind of real life experience is invaluable in this area.

Public education receives over half of our state budget, over 40% of our property tax dollars, $1 billion+ in federal dollars and millions more in local funding each year. If we count the investment we make in higher education, our state dedicates 2/3 of our state budget to education. This level of financial support demands efficient use of taxpayer dollars, with an eye on results.

Indiana is blessed with an incredible group of outstanding educational professionals, with 98% of our teachers rated as Effective or Highly Effective and we continue to strive to provide resources and guidance to those entrusted with tomorrow's leaders!

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