-- The issue of fairness and equality should remain central to the discussion about educational opportunity and funding. The current law states that each town spending the same amount of money per pupil will have the same tax rate. The actual school tax bill is then adjusted based on income. It is a complicated funding structure that I would work to simplify. However, the principal of equal opportunity must be protected. We need to provide motivation and encouragement for Vermont students to pursue higher education. Individuals who lack a college degree may be denied numerous opportunities in our modern world. Financial barriers and lack of preparation should not be the driving factors for a student’s decision not to enroll at a college or university. I am opposed to costly state and federal mandates, especially those that impose standardized testing. Education should not be about teaching children to score well on a test. Our public schools need the flexibility to meet the academic needs and creative abilities of all our students. Maintaining quality education in Vermont is essential. Education is the key to providing for the future of our children. A well-educated populace strengthens our communities and our economy. Seeing that our children have opportunities to excel is high on my priority list.
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November 4, 2008