Education
Schools Our Kids Deserve
According to Merriam-Webster, education is defined as "the action or process of teaching or of being or becoming educated." But when does learning begin? Many researchers believe it starts at birth — and some even suggest it begins in the womb. More importantly, when does learning end? Hopefully, it never does. Learning should continue throughout our lives, right up to our final day.
A System in Need of Reform
Unfortunately, our education system is facing serious challenges and is in desperate need of reform. Schools are closing across our state and nation. Why? Why are so many parents choosing to remove their children from public schools in favor of homeschooling or private education? These are questions we cannot afford to ignore.
Teacher Pay and Retention
We must take a hard look at teacher pay and teacher retention. We entrust educators with one of society's most important responsibilities: preparing our children to become informed, productive, and responsible citizens. Yet many teachers struggle with inadequate compensation and are forced to spend their own money on classroom supplies. When teachers reach into their own pockets to provide basic necessities for students, it is clear that our schools are not being fully funded. Discussions about locality pay may be part of the solution, but we must be willing to explore every option that strengthens our public schools and supports our educators.
How Education Dollars Are Spent
At the same time, we must carefully examine how education dollars are being spent. In Fiscal Year 2024, approximately $24.4 million was spent on the Hope Scholarship program. Some projections suggest that by the 2026–2027 school year, that cost could approach $300 million. As we ask why students are leaving public schools, we should also ask what can be done to make public education a destination of choice once again. If we can address the concerns driving families away, we may be able to bring students — and vital funding — back into our public school system.
Accountability at Every Level
Accountability must also be a priority. School administrators and elected school board members should be held fully accountable for the performance of our schools, the stewardship of taxpayer dollars, and the educational outcomes of our students.
Education Is an Investment
Education is not an expense — it is an investment. The future of our communities, our workforce, and our state depend on the quality of education we provide today. If we want stronger communities tomorrow, we must be willing to strengthen our schools today.
"Education is not an expense — it is an investment."
— Byron Tucker Jr.