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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) The major weakness continues to be unfairness in funding. School districts are dependent on local property taxes and this causes inequities. I will offer a simple solution to property tax reform by using the anticipated gambling revenue to directly offset property taxes without referendums. I would also take part of the revenue and have it available for districts to implement full day kindergarten, pre-K programs and other initiatives. 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) The Legislature must not pass "tax reform" that includes budget referendums. This will discourage districts from undertaking initiatives to improve student performance. It takes a great deal of time, dedication and money to get all students to proficient, and state policy needs to encourage not discourage the efforts. Changes to AYP calculations must be made by Congress when they reauthorize NCLB, and pressure from states will help. 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) Funding for collaborative efforts among districts to address common challenges can have a substantial benefit. Our district is part of the Delaware Valley Minority Consortium which has provided an excellent forum for us to gain knowledge from experts and similar districts. I will lead the legislature in setting up a program similar to the DVMC to assist districts. 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) Pennsylvania should have full day kindergarten for all students. Also, pre-K opportunities for all children, starting with the most at risk, should be implemented. The best way to meet the NCLB requirements is to start children at a younger age with quality programs that allow for basic instruction and socialization. If all the anticipated money from gambling becomes available we can not only reduce property taxes but also pay for full day kindergarten and pre-K programs. 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) Every child should have a safe quality public education starting before kindergarten and continuing through high school, with help for college/trade school. The quality of your education, which translates into your opportunity for success, should not be dependent on your district having a mall or other valuable property. We offer a top quality education in my district and other children in Pennsylvania should have the same opportunity my children have. 6. Is there anything else that you will do to strengthen Pennsylvania's public education system? (75 words or less) Do not take authority away from local districts. Do not pass mandates or other requirements without sending full funding. Do not blame nonperformance on teachers who are often underpaid, overworked and not adequately supported. Take the lead in cheerleading for public schools and recognize the fact that they hold the fate of our communities, state and country in their hands.
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