 |
|
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) A strength is a vocal commitment to support public education. The state does differentiate among needy districts when allocating funds. This should continue. A weakness is unfunded mandates. Funding of pensions and special needs education requires state funding. As the state debates tax shifts, the state must assure full and secure funding of public education. 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) Under the NCLB, parents of failing schools can choose to move their children to schools with passing scores on the state mandated assessments. Although appearance is good, the concern is the failing schools and children who cannot be relocated. School communities need to be given the latitude to make the schools work based on multiple assessments, not one snapshot in time. 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) Permit educators to work with policy-makers. Utilize all research and identify practices both within and outside of Penna. that are successful. School should have equal opportunities to hire the best teachers. Early learning programs should be instituted. It is time to revisit the length of the school day and year. 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 learning programs advocated by the school community need to be available. Well-fed and healthy meals for all children need to be available. Finland required degreed day care instruction. Their system is a pillar. Universal pre-K (4) learning should be available for all children. Physical activity, artistic endeavors should be supported. 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 elected official must be an advocate for children. Health insurance, healthy food and a secure condition for learning is necessary. Funding for public education must be assured and fair. 6. Is there anything else that you will do to strengthen Pennsylvania's public education system? (75 words or less) Current pressure is on Legislators to shift the tax burden away from property owners. Action needs to be taken. I will assure the schools are secure in their funding however we do need to shift the burden away from the elderly residential taxpayer. We need to unite the community to support the teachers and their professionalism. Communities are too divided over money; not united on a smart healthy learning goal.
|