 |
|
for 2006 Pennsylvania Primary Election Legislative Candidates
1. What are the strengths and weaknesses of Pennsylvania's system of funding public education? What should the Pennsylvania Legislature do, if anything, to improve the system of funding public education? (75 words or less) Pennsylvania's schools are notoriously underfunded. Some years ago, the legislature promised to pick up about 55% of the tab, particularly for districts that consolidated into jointures. Currently, all educational funding stands at about 35%, in spite of increasing demands made for student achievement and instructional and technological upgrading. The legislature needs to increase funding to its promised level of 55%, as well as allocate additional funds for districts challenged by societal changes which are impacting their schools. 2. How should the Pennsylvania Legislature assist school districts to meet the requirements of Pennsylvania's regulations for academic standards and graduation requirements as well as the federal No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) that expects every student to demonstrate proficiencies on state assessments in reading, math and science by 2014, and for all schools to demonstrate "adequate yearly progress" (required by NCLB) toward that goal? (75 words or less) Pennsylvania needs to address the changing demographics of our population. There is an influx on English Language Learners as well as students who received their earlier educations in other states, often in the inner cities. Students who must overcome myriad academic challenges need to be identified as early as possible and programs developed to address their needs. Head Start and similar programs must be available elsewhere as well as supplemental programs to enhance and reinforce standard educational programs. 3. How should the Pennsylvania Legislature assist school districts to close the academic achievement gaps that exist among groups of students in schools and school districts across the Commonwealth? (75 words or less) Many students who experience academic difficulties come from challenged environments. It is essential to implement and maintain early childhood education programs everywhere to give all children at least an even chance at academic success. As they proceed through school, there should be enrichment and supplementary programs to provide them with a broader perspective and positively reinforce their in-school experiences. 4. What, if anything, should the Pennsylvania Legislature do to increase access for young children in Pennsylvania to high-quality pre-K programs and full-day kindergarten programs? (75 words or less) Early childhood and pre-K programs should be available in all districts, with experienced, highly qualified teachers. Such programs should focus not only on the basics of primary education but also provide an experiential background upon which the elementary and middle grades can build. Funding might be partnered by the state, the local districts, perhaps private grants, and even through the auspices, where possible, of local colleges and universities. 5. What is your vision of the public education opportunity that should be available to every child in Pennsylvania and what will you do to accomplish that goal? (75 words or less) I see public education one day providing an even chance to all students, from early childhood through high school. I would legislate manageable class size for all grades, as well as emphasize excellence through reward rather than punishment. I would try to make the latest in technology standard in all schools everywhere in the state. I would make enrichment and supplementary programs available to everyone as well as emphasize honors and advanced placement courses for all students who qualify. 6. Is there anything else that you will do to strengthen Pennsylvania's public education system? (75 words or less) Pennsylvania has many highly regarded colleges and universities. I envision a partnership between them and the public school districts, wherein all levels of education can work together to reinforce the goal of leaving no child behind. The universities possess the population and the facilities to enhance the educational experiences of all children. Perhaps summer or after school programs might be implemented to reinforce learning activities. Exposing all children to the advantages of higher education might well be an incentive for excellence.
|