Public Education (K-12)

Texas is huge! No one denies that. In fact, if it hadn't been for that upstart, Alaska, we would still be the largest state (by area) in the Union. But our size also means that we have multiple areas with very dense populations and even more areas with very sparse populations. These two factors present unique and daunting challenges to public education throughout the state. Between the razor-thin education budgets in our school districts and the increasing costs that public education seems to routinely require, our current education funding models have become even more challenging than the models found in other states.

Let's take a look at what each political party has to say about Public Education (K-12):

Republicans: Education, not indoctrination. Public education is socialism!

Democrats: If you think education is too expensive, try ignorance.

My View: Get government out of the classroom and let teachers teach.

Republicans on Public Education (K-12)

Republican views on K-12 education encompass a range of perspectives, from advocating for school choice to expressing concerns about curriculum content and parental influence. Many Republicans view K-12 schools as having a negative effect on the country, and view the Department of Education negatively. Republicans generally support school-choice initiatives, which give parents more control over their children’s education. This includes options such as charter schools, virtual schools, and homeschooling. Some also advocate for same-sex schools, full-day school hours, and year-round schools. Republicans are also more likely to think that state governments and school boards have too much influence over what their children learn and believe that parents don’t have enough influence.

"Frozen in the moment, the lack of possibilities between how it is and how it ought to be."

Democrats on Public Education (K-12)

Democrats prioritize ensuring that every child, regardless of their ZIP code, has access to a quality public K-12 education. As the global marketplace becomes more competitive, Democrats emphasize the need to expand opportunities for higher education and job training which is most often derived from public education. Democrats tend to believe that K-12 public schools are having a positive effect on the country and also have a favorable opinion of the U.S. Department of Education. Many Democrats also express confidence in K-12 principals to act in the best interests of the public. Democrats also prioritize equitable access to quality education and support policies aimed at improving K-12 schools and expanding educational opportunities for all.

"Burning in the moment, trapped by desperation between how it is and how it ought to be."

My Views on Public Education (K-12)

It has been commonly and consistently recognized that the quality of education in Texas is a problem, but I believe that ONE answer is not more state control; it is innovation.

Given the amount of government funding spent on education in Texas, the expenditure does not seem to translate into adequately prepared students who are capable of finding a job. I think that one reason for this is the generic standards and mandates imposed on schools statewide. In my opinion, schools and school districts need the freedom to set their educational curriculum and expectations to meet the needs of the people most directly affected by the institution; the students.

"It's such a cloudy day, seems like we'll never see the sun or feel the day has possibilities."

One component of this plan is to allow educators to teach and innovate based on what’s best for their students. The methods used in one district may not work for another -- this is why unfunded education mandates from the state do more harm than good. I think that a significant reduction in the number of administrators per student is also necessary. The previously mentioned points would assist with this, as more control in the hands of local school boards, parents, and students would not require as much oversight or paper-pushing to respond to federal and state level restrictions.

The Issue of Public Education (K-12)

It's universally acknowledged that public education is one of the most expensive government services. As taxpayers/investors, we often expect that it should provide the some of the best returns on our investment. Unfortunately, most discussions on improving public education typically involve funneling more money into a system that was designed well before the current information age.

"Here's a little trap that sometimes trips up everyone: when we tire of our own company, sometimes we're the last to see beyond the day's frustrations."

Some of my opinions regarding education:

• School Choice and Vouchers [Article Link]
• School Safety [Article Link]
• A Cynical View of Education in American Politics [Article Link]
• Schools are Not Education [Article Link]
• Subjects That Should Be Taught in American Schools [Article Link]
• Government Funding [Article Link]