Issue Position: Education and Common Core

Issue Position

An educated and trained workforce is the area's best guarantee for a stronger economy and future economic development. Last session, new growth in Nevada's economy led Governor Sandoval and the legislature to increase spending in Nevada's classrooms by 5.6% over the biennium. Along with increased spending, continued education reforms are a high priority. Some reform accomplishments by fellow Republicans in the last legislature session include the modification of layoff rules that focus on performance rather than tenure, allowing merit pay for outstanding educators, as well as approval for the Charter School Authority which allows parents a choice for their child's education.

"PK" is also prepared to take a close look at the Common Core standards that are becoming the center of debate. "PK" believes that local choice and management of curriculum by both parents and educators results in more rigorous standards for students, resulting in students being better prepared for success in college and for the workplace.

Another issue of importance for our area involves Western Nevada College. Currently, Western Nevada College receives its funding from the Nevada System of Higher Education, however, there has been recent discussion to localize and privatize the community college system. This would shift budgeting burdens onto local governments and put unnecessary strain on the community college system. "PK" will stand with other Republicans who are maintaining our current budgeting for our community colleges.

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