Issue Position: Education

Issue Position

Missouri is ranked 37th in spending on Elementary and Secondary Education. This is not a reflection of efficiency. This is neglect. Our current public school funding formula is not adequate to meet the real needs of our children. We must use a more equitable formula that can provide schools with the tools needed to successfully educate our children.

Ensure that Higher Education is Attainable.

The expense of a college degree is rapidly becoming unattainable for families in Missouri. Even with financial aid many of our future leaders and innovators are left unable to reach their full potential because they cannot go to college. We must increase financial aid programs so that talented individuals are provided the opportunity to become successful and prosperous.

Provide Early Childhood Programs.

In today's competitive world, children must be prepared to be effective students when they reach school age. Early childhood education provides children with the tools they will need to be successful in school and for the rest of their lives. Children that have participated in early childhood education programs, when compared with those that did not, are less likely to become involved in crime. They are less likely to receive welfare as adults. They are dramatically more likely to be homeowners, graduate from high school and earn more money.

Support Teachers.

Teachers are entrusted with the education and development of our children yet in Missouri teacher salaries are ranked 45th out of the 50 states. Our teachers earn almost $9,000 a year less than the national average. Recent moves by our legislature are further stacking the deck against our teachers. Teachers must receive adequate salaries and maintain collective bargaining. They should not have to be distracted from their calling by having to fight daily to maintain their rights in the workplace.

Real Accountability in Education

The State of Missouri should be fair in the analysis and rating of all educational institutions. All schools that receive our tax dollars must be held to the same standards. When public funds are used in a school, the state should ensure that the rights and collective bargaining of employees meet the same standards as those of other public institutions.

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