Issue Position: Manageable Education Reform

Issue Position

Julie On The Issue

In 2011 the Idaho Legislature passed a sweeping education reform package that changed the landscape of education in our state. I believe that the students, education staff and parents of our state deserve efficient, effective implementation of this plan for the stabilization of our schools.

Managing Idaho's new Students Come First education reforms has become a cumbersome process for local school boards and their employees. The Idaho Department of Education seems to be learning and adjusting themselves in the process as they proceed with assisting the local school districts to implement it. I want local district boards to have needed latitude, with guidance, in a timely manner when implementing these reforms.

Through the years as I volunteered in the classrooms throughout my school district I became aware of the demands and mandates enforced on teachers and administrators. It seemed to me that there was never a reduction in what was required, just a replacement or addition. With the increased amounts of technical knowledge and skills that teachers will be receiving, I would like to make it possible for them to rid their plates of the amount of requirements that have been building up over time. The stage has been set; now let educators do what they do best, educate students.

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