Issue Position: Education

Issue Position

I support strong public schools. The diversion of public funds through private school vouchers has had a devastating effect on our public schools where over 90% of Hoosier children receive their education. I don't oppose private education, but Indiana cannot adequately fund public and private education systems. The founders of our country recognized that public education is the bedrock of democracy. It still is. Therefore, we should stop subsidizing education for the few and concentrate our resources on improving the quality of education for the many.

To ensure a strong educational system, we must support teachers and start early. Good teachers are the most important influence on a child's education. We need to stop paying teachers lip service and begin paying them a living wage and showing them the respect they deserve. In addition, the early years are critical to a good start in life, yet Indiana lags behind other states in adopting early education. We must make pre-K available to all.

Finally, we must do all we can to promote lifelong education. It's not just a slogan. It's a necessity for Hoosiers and our economy. It's clear that a high school diploma is not enough for 21st-century workers. Higher education -- whether that is a certificate, a two- or four-year, or advanced degree -- must be affordable for everyone. With smart and adequate state support, we can reduce tuition costs, making college affordable and providing prospective employers with a career-ready workforce. That means better jobs for Hoosiers, better employees for businesses, and a better economy for Indiana.

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