Education

Establishing a balanced educational framework that encourages engagement, ensures access for all students, and supports educators and parents.

Image courtesy of Note Thanun

The courage of “&” in education

The courage of “&” means valuing educational excellence and advocating for equity. In Utah, we must ensure that every child has access to quality education, regardless of their background or circumstance. This requires embracing innovative approaches alongside traditional methods, recognizing that educational success is not a zero-sum game. By fostering an environment where both achievement and fairness thrive, we can prepare our youth for a better future.

Financial security

Neglecting education has severe financial consequences. The economic impact of inadequate education is profound; high school dropouts earn approximately $10,000 less annually than their peers who graduate, translating to a lifetime income loss of over $300,000 per person. Additionally, every student who fails to graduate contributes to a cycle of poverty that incurs significant costs for Utah taxpayers in lost revenue and increased social services.

Human dignity

Education is fundamental to human dignity. Every child deserves the opportunity to learn and grow in a supportive environment that recognizes their unique potential. When we fail to provide equitable education, we rob children of their right to succeed, perpetuating cycles of disadvantage and limiting their life choices. Upholding human dignity in education means ensuring that every student has the resources and support they need to flourish.

Real solutions

• Protect freedom of thought and expression: Repeal book bans that limit access to diverse viewpoints and critical thinking, ensuring that students can engage with a wide range of ideas and narratives. Create library book zones that parents can opt their students out of, designed for those parents who choose to limit their student's engagement with different perspectives without infringing on other parents' rights.
  

• Enhance literacy and math skills: Implement funding programs that encourage schools to adopt proven educational methods, such as phonics instruction and comprehensive literacy initiatives, to boost student performance.
  

• Utilize technology wisely: Set forth guidelines for the safe and effective integration of AI in classrooms, ensuring that technology serves to enrich educational experiences rather than detract from them.
  

• Increasing teacher recruitment and support: Enhance compensation and benefits to attract and retain talented educators. With Utah's average teacher salary of approximately $56,847 falling short of the national average of about $61,600, coupled with rising inflation and living costs, we need to invest in competitive salaries and robust professional development to ensure our teachers can thrive and effectively serve our students.
  

• Fight against privatization schemes: Oppose efforts to divert public funds to private education, advocating for robust investment in public schools that serve all students fairly.
  

• Establish universal early childhood education: Create accessible Pre-K programs for every 3- and 4-year-old, along with increased support for affordable childcare, laying a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
  

• Advocate for special education: Ensure that federal protections remain in place to provide adequate funding and resources for students with disabilities, allowing them to achieve their full potential.
  

• Facilitate career readiness: Develop partnerships with local industries to enhance career and technical education, equipping students with the skills they need for high-demand jobs.
  

• Address student well-being: Expand access to nutrition programs that guarantee healthy meals for all students, and increase the number of mental health professionals in schools to support student wellness.