The public is a key player in the country’s most important institution, the public education. The public elects the school board, pays taxes to support public school, votes for the school bond referendum, visits the schools and volunteers. The public schools help young people become responsible citizens by transferring important values and information. Education is essential for all members of society due to its effect on the community, economy, jobs, safety and health.
– Higher salaries are possible due to the increased productivity of the country’s workforce.
– A person with a higher education is more likely to report that they are in good or excellent health.
A person’s education is a major factor in whether they are eligible to vote.
Many young males see a strong correlation between crime and drop-out rates
While many candidates will be vocal in their support of public education, voters can make sure that elected officials are well-informed about the important issues and that they keep their promise to educate. This voter guide was created to help voters concentrate on education issues and ask informed questions of political candidates.
Strong Public Education Candidates:
Learn about school reform and how to improve public schools
– Learn about education policy, the federal, state and local laws that govern public schools; and the responsibilities for the chosen office
– Make education a top priority on their political platform
– To solicit opinions and viewpoints from citizens via polling, town meetings and community conversations as well as face-to-face discussions
– Previous experience in public education policy
– Communicate clearly about the priorities of public education
– Develop a realistic funding plan that will support public education improvement and provide adequate resources for all schools
– Communicate with those who will be responsible for student and school performance
Questions for Candidates
Quality public education must guarantee basic needs such as shelter, nutrition and safety. Education is a process that develops cognitive and social skills. Quality education starts at an early age. An education-supporting candidate will be able to articulate a clear position on many health and other issues affecting children.
– What suggestions do you have for public programs that support children who are not served?
– What’s your opinion on education’s importance and value?
– What are your top priorities in improving public education?
Students are only partially responsible for how well their students do. Schools play a vital role and elected officials at all levels have some control over how schools are run and who holds students accountable for their success. Strong candidates for education should understand the importance of their offices in public education and be able to explain what they will do to improve school performance.
What should you do to ensure that public schools are effective and that children succeed?
– What responsibility and authority would your election give you for public education?
– Which are your top recommendations for evaluating student and school performance?
How do you assess teacher quality?
While most candidates for office are supportive of quality and improving public education, their proposals on how to fund public education differ widely. A solid education candidate must have a viable plan to fund schools.